What is lateral funiculi?

Lateral funiculi are parts of the spinal cord that make up the two lateral (side) columns of white matter, along with the anterior and posterior funiculi. They contain ascending and descending nerve tracts, also known as pathways, that connect the spinal cord to the brain and throughout the body. These pathways include the spinothalamic tract, which transmits pain and temperature information, and the corticospinal tract, which controls voluntary movements. The lateral funiculi also contain sensory and motor neurons, as well as glial cells that support and protect nerve cells. Damage to the lateral funiculi can result in various neurological symptoms, such as muscle weakness, loss of sensation, and paralysis.