Motor cell bodies are located in which part of the spinal cord?

Motor cell bodies are primarily located in the ventral and ventrolateral gray columns of the spinal cord. These regions contain the lower motor neurons that innervate skeletal muscles, a critical function for voluntary movement. The ventral horn of the spinal cord is specifically designed to house the motor nuclei, which send axons out through the ventral roots to connect with muscle fibers.

This arrangement allows for the direct control of muscle activity, facilitating coordinated movements. The ventral and ventrolateral gray columns are distinguished from other parts of the spinal cord, such as the dorsal gray column, which primarily contains sensory neurons. Understanding the organization of the spinal cord is essential for interpreting neurological function and diagnosing movement disorders.