The spinal cord is shown in cross-section, with all the major ascending and descending tracts present (each with the same colour as shown previously). On the nearer side, the traditional layout is used, except that both ascending and descending tracts are shown. This representation should help the learner appreciate how a tumour or transection of the spinal cord could affect both ascending (sensory) and descending (motor) pathways, depending upon which portion of the spinal cord is affected. Other diseases may strike at one or a group of pathways situated next to each other.