neural arch
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A bony or cartilaginous structure forming the dorsal part of a vertebra: The neural arch is the arch of bone that projects from the back (dorsal side) of the vertebral body (centrum) and surrounds the spinal cord to protect it.
Usage
- The term is used primarily in anatomy, zoology, and paleontology to describe a specific anatomical feature of vertebrae in vertebrates.
- It is a singular, countable noun. The plural form is "neural arches."
Examples
- Noun:
- A complete vertebra consists of a centrum and a neural arch.
- The fossil showed a well-preserved neural arch.
- Damage to the neural arch can compromise the protection of the spinal cord.
Advanced Usage
- In comparative anatomy, the structure and size of the neural arch can indicate the type of movement an animal's spine was capable of.
- The term is often used in conjunction with "centrum" (the body of the vertebra) and "neural spine" (the projection from the top of the neural arch).
Variants and Related Words
- Vertebral arch: A synonym for neural arch.
- Neural spine (n): The spinous process projecting dorsally from the neural arch.
- Hemal arch (n): A similar arch found on the ventral side of caudal vertebrae in many vertebrates, enclosing blood vessels.
Synonyms
- Vertebral arch: The most direct synonym.
Related Phrases / Compound Terms
- Neural arch pedicle: One of the two bony pillars (left and right) that connect the neural arch to the vertebral body.
- Neural arch lamina: The flattened plate of bone forming the roof of the neural arch.
Noun
- a structure arising dorsally from a vertebral centrum and enclosing the spinal cord