Stimulation of the lateral vestibular nucleus of Deiters produces increased extensor tone on the same side. Through which descending pathway does this nucleus exert its effect on antigravity muscles?
- A Reticulospinal tract
- B Medial vestibulospinal tract
- C Lateral vestibulospinal tract ✓
- D Tectospinal tract
Correct answer: C. Lateral vestibulospinal tract
Explanation
The lateral vestibular nucleus gives rise to the lateral vestibulospinal tract, which descends uncrossed in the anterior funiculus throughout the cord and facilitates extensor (antigravity) motor neurons, mediating postural reflexes. The medial vestibulospinal tract arises mainly from the medial vestibular nucleus, descends only to upper cervical segments within the medial longitudinal fasciculus, and acts on neck muscles. The tectospinal tract mediates reflex head turning toward visual stimuli.
Reference: Ganong's Review of Medical Physiology, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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