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Biomedical Basics

Motor systems

  • Created by Henry Stewart Talks
Published on March 31, 2026   5 min

A selection of talks on Neuroscience

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In this talk, the focus is motor systems, supported by coverage of the basic structure and function of the motor system, including its central and peripheral components and how they communicate to produce movement. We will examine the neural pathways responsible for voluntary and involuntary actions, highlighting the roles of the motor cortex, basal ganglia, and cerebellum. The lecture will also address how upper and lower motor neuron disorders manifest and the significance of neuroplasticity in recovery and rehabilitation. Finally, we will discuss emerging technologies that harness motor system plasticity to aid rehabilitation and restore movement after injury. The ability to move is a central feature of living beings, underpinning everything from simple reflexes to complex movements like playing an instrument or participating in sports. The motor system includes structures in the central and peripheral nervous systems that plan, initiate, coordinate, and execute movement. This lecture will explore how these components communicate from brain pathways to peripheral nerves and muscles, supporting reflexes and skilled movements. Our motor systems are divided into central and peripheral components. The central motor pathways include the pyramidal and extrapyramidal systems, each with distinct roles. The pyramidal system, including the corticospinal tract originates in the primary motor cortex and descends through the brainstem and spinal cord. It is essential for voluntary, precise and skilled movements,

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