n. a large pyramidal cell located on the fifth cortical layer (motor cortex) of the cerebrum. It represents the largest neurons found in the CNS, and its axon extends down to the spinal cord. Given its structure and function, this type of cell plays a key role in muscle movement and in sensitivity to stimulation. Named after Russian anatomist Vladimir Betz (1834-1894).
BETZ CELL: “Each Betz cell is one of a layer of large pyramidal cells comprising the motor area of your cerebral cortex.”