Motor neurons

Motor neurons are specialized nerve cells in the nervous system that transmit signals from the brain and spinal cord to muscles, prompting movement. They play a crucial role in controlling voluntary actions, like walking or grasping objects, as well as involuntary actions, such as reflexes. When a motor neuron sends a signal, it releases chemicals that trigger muscle contractions. Understanding motor neurons is essential for studying movement disorders, like ALS or spinal cord injuries, where motor neuron function is impaired, leading to challenges in mobility and coordination.