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In anatomy, a process (Latin: processus) is a projection or outgrowth of tissue from a larger body. [1] For instance, in a vertebra, a process may serve for muscle attachment and leverage (as in the case of the transverse and spinous processes), or to fit (forming a synovial joint), with another vertebra (as in the case of the articular processes). [2]
Paravertebral line: A vertical line corresponding to the tips of the transverse processes of the vertebrae. Posterior median line; Other anatomical lines include: Mid-pupillary line: A line running vertically down the face through the midpoint of the pupil when looking directly forward.
There are seven processes projecting from the vertebra: one spinous process; two transverse processes; four articular processes; A major part of a vertebra is a backward extending spinous process (sometimes called the neural spine) which projects centrally. [7] This process points dorsally and caudally from the junction of the laminae. [7]
The transverse processes are large; they project laterally and downward from the lateral masses, and serve for the attachment of muscles which assist in rotating the head. They are long, and their anterior and posterior tubercles are fused into one mass; the foramen transversarium is directed from below, upward and backward.
The transverse processes are very small, and each ends in a single tubercle. Each process is perforated by the transverse foramen, which is directed obliquely upward and laterally. The superior articular surfaces are round, slightly convex, directed upward and laterally, and are supported on the body, pedicles, and transverse processes.
T-tubules (transverse tubules) are extensions of the cell membrane that penetrate into the center of skeletal and cardiac muscle cells.With membranes that contain large concentrations of ion channels, transporters, and pumps, T-tubules permit rapid transmission of the action potential into the cell, and also play an important role in regulating cellular calcium concentration.
In human anatomy, the five vertebrae are between the rib cage and the pelvis.They are the largest segments of the vertebral column and are characterized by the absence of the foramen transversarium within the transverse process (since it is only found in the cervical region) and by the absence of facets on the sides of the body (as found only in the thoracic region).
The vertebral transverse processes of mammals are homologous to the cervical ribs of other amniotes. [ citation needed ] Most mammals have seven cervical vertebrae, with the only three known exceptions being the manatee with six, the two-toed sloth with five or six, and the three-toed sloth with nine.