Gray Matter (also known as Gray Matters, Matter, Gray): Region of CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM that appears darker in color than the other type, WHITE MATTER. It is composed of neuronal CELL BODIES; NEUROPIL; GLIAL CELLS and CAPILLARIES but few MYELINATED NERVE FIBERS.

NIH MeSH · D066128Anatomy

Gray Matter

Also known asGray Matters · Matter, Gray · Matters, Gray · Grey Matter · Grey Matters · Matter, Grey · Matters, Grey · Cerebellar Gray Matter · Cerebellar Gray Matters · Gray Matter, Cerebellar · Gray Matters, Cerebellar · Matter, Cerebellar Gray

Definition

Region of CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM that appears darker in color than the other type, WHITE MATTER. It is composed of neuronal CELL BODIES; NEUROPIL; GLIAL CELLS and CAPILLARIES but few MYELINATED NERVE FIBERS.

MeSH classification

  • A08.186.211.168
  • A08.186.854.348

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Related concepts

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Common questions about Gray Matter

What does Gray Matter mean in medicine?
Region of CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM that appears darker in color than the other type, WHITE MATTER. It is composed of neuronal CELL BODIES; NEUROPIL; GLIAL CELLS and CAPILLARIES but few MYELINATED NERVE FIBERS. This definition is taken from the National Library of Medicine's MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) 2026 release, which is the standard vocabulary used to index PubMed and most medical literature.
Is Gray Matter known by any other names?
Yes. Gray Matter is also referred to as Gray Matters, Matter, Gray, Matters, Gray, Grey Matter in different clinical, research and patient-facing contexts. The MeSH descriptor groups all of these synonyms under a single canonical concept so research and records stay consistent.
Where does Gray Matter sit in the medical classification?
Gray Matter falls under the broader medical category "Anatomy" in the MeSH hierarchy (tree numbers: A08.186.211.168, A08.186.854.348). Browsing the related concepts on this page takes you to neighbouring topics in the same branch of medicine.
Where can I get a plain-language explanation of Gray Matter?
For a plain-language explanation of Gray Matter - including symptoms, treatments and what it means for an Indian patient - ask GoDavaii's Health AI. It works in 22+ Indian languages, is free and needs no signup. Tap "Ask GoDavaii AI about Gray Matter" above.

Source: NIH MeSH 2026 (D066128) — National Library of Medicine, public domain. View official MeSH record ↗