Spinotectal tract

The spinotectal tract is an ascending sensory pathway. The first-order neurons of the spinotectal tract arise from the dorsal root ganglion, whose axons enter the posterior gray horn of the spinal cord. The second-order neurons, though incompletely defined, are found in the posterior horn. Axons of these neurons decussate (cross the midline) in the spinal cord before ascending within the anterolateral funiculus (or anterolateral white column), alongside the spinothalamic tracts. The tract continues through the medulla oblongata and pons before terminating in the superior colliculus of the midbrain.

Functionally, the spinotectal tract conveys sensory input—including nociceptive stimuli—to the superior colliculus, facilitating spinovisual reflexes. For instance, it aids in directing eye movements toward a visual or painful stimulus (via tectobulbar tract) and coordinating neck movements towards the stimulus (via the tectospinal tract). By integrating sensory and motor responses, this tract contributes to reflexive orientation and protective behaviors.

The spinotectal pathway, part of the broader anterolateral sensory system, underscores the connection between pain perception and visuomotor reflexes critical for adaptive responses.