2 - CNS Principles

Question 1

Types of sensory info

Answer 1

1. Remote: info is external to organism
2. Proximate: info from objects in contact with body
3. Internal: info produced inside the organism
   
   1. Proprioceptive (muscle tension, space)
   2. Vescerosensory (organs)
   3. Vestibular (balance)

Question 2

Process of creating new synapses

Answer 2

• mRNA proteins are readily available in the cell, complexed in dormant “granules”
• When new synapses need to be made, the mRNA is “unmasked” (decoupled) from granule
• mRNA now performs local translation to remodel the cytoskeleton

Question 3

Neuron Doctrine

Answer 3

• All physiological/psychological functions of the CNS are determined by the electrochemical properties of neurons
• Neurons are stand-alone processing units (don’t form cytoplasmic continuity with other neurons)…
• That transfer info to other neurons via cell processes (axons, dendrites)…
• At the synapse through electrical or chemical means.
• Interaction between neurotransmitters and receptors on the receiving neuron determined whether the receiving neuron is “excited” or “inhibited”

Question 4

Van Economo Spindle Neurons

Answer 4

• Found in layer V of certain cortex areas of certrain animals
• Indicates higher functioning
• Allows for rapid transfer of info between distant networks