Atlas


Atlas: The first vertebra in the neck. It supports the head at the base of the skull. Also known as first cervical vertebra.

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  • Atlas and axis joint

    Atlas and axis joint: The joint between the atlas and axis bones. The atlas is the first cervical (neck) vertebra which is just under the head; it is named for Atlas, the Greek god who supported the world on his shoulders. The axis is the second cervical vertebra; it has what is called the odontoid […]

  • Atloaxoid joint

    Atloaxoid joint: The joint between the atlas and axis bones. The atlas is the first cervical (neck) vertebra which is just under the head; it is named for Atlas, the Greek god who supported the world on his shoulders. The axis is the second cervical vertebra; it has what is called the odontoid process about […]

  • ATM

    ATM: Symbol for the ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) gene. The protein made by the ATM gene functions to control the rate at which cells grow. The ATM protein does this by sending signals and modifying proteins in the cell, which then alters the function of the proteins. This protein also interacts with other proteins (for […]

  • Atom

    Atom: The smallest part of any material that cannot be broken up by chemical means. Each atom has a center (the nucleus) which contains protons and neutrons. Electrons orbit around the nucleus. The atom is primarily empty space. If the nucleus of an atom were the size of the button on a baseball pitcher’s cap, […]

  • Atonia, REM sleep

    Atonia, REM sleep: See: Sleep paralysis Medically reviewed by Martin Zipser, MD; Board Certified: Surgery


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