extrapyramidal tracts
Extrapyramidal tracts are neural pathways in the central nervous system that help regulate involuntary movements and muscle tone. Unlike the pyramidal tracts, which are primarily responsible for voluntary motor control, extrapyramidal tracts originate in various brain regions, including the basal ganglia, cerebellum, and brainstem. They play a crucial role in coordinating movements and maintaining posture.
These tracts influence motor activity by modulating signals sent to the spinal cord. Key components of the extrapyramidal system include the reticulospinal tract, rubrospinal tract, and vestibulospinal tract. Dysfunction in these pathways can lead to movement disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and Huntington's disease.