4: Chemical synapses & nervous system structure

• The anterolaeral and dorsal column pathways are both ascending (sensory) pathways.
• The anterolateral pathway senses pain or temperature. The 2nd order neuron crosses over in the spinal cord.
• The dorsal column pathway senses pressure and fine touch discrimination. The 2nd order neuron crosses over in the brainstem.
• An important note on the descending pathway is that the right motor cortex controls muscles on the left side of the body, and vice versa, due to crossing over.
• The cerebellum is involved with coordination of movement and posture control.
• The cortex or cerebrum is the most complex integrating area of the brain.
• The thalamus is the relay station of the brain through which all (most) sensory information is passed through.