If the dorsal root of a spinal nerve is severed,
A) motor control of skeletal muscles would be impaired.
B) motor control of visceral organs would be impaired.
C) the spinal cord would not be able to process information at that level.
D) the brain would not be able to communicate with that level of the spinal cord.
E) incoming sensory information would be disrupted.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The dorsal root of a spinal nerve contains sensory neurons that transmit sensory information from the body to the spinal cord. If the dorsal root is severed, incoming sensory information would be disrupted, which can result in sensory loss or impaired sensation. Motor control of skeletal and visceral muscles, on the other hand, is mediated by the ventral root of a spinal nerve, which is distinct from the dorsal root.

If the Dorsal Root of a Spinal Nerve Is Severed