Onuf's nucleus
Description[edit | edit source]
Onuf's nucleus is a small group of motor neurons located in the anterior horn of the S2 segment of the spinal cord, specifically in Lamina IX. It is named after Bronislaw Onuf-Onufrowicz, a neurologist, who first discovered the structure in 1899.
Functions[edit | edit source]
Significance[edit | edit source]
Interestingly, Onuf's nucleus is the only motor neuron preserved in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Additionally, it is also spared in Spinal Muscle Atrophy Type I. In stark contrast, it is the one of the most affected structures in Multiple System Atrophy. Therefore, the presence or absence of incontinence and impotence can allow the clinician to rule in or out the possibility of the above conditions from their differential diagnosis.
