Brain Anatomy and CNS Flashcards
What is neuroplasticity?
The ability of neurons and networks to change.
Ex: we are born with many neurons but we lose many during development.
What does the neocortex do?
Our conscious experience of the world happens via the neocortex. (the outer layer of your brain)
What is the medulla?
Breathing, heart rate etc. is going on without our awareness via the medulla (part of the brainstem).
What are the 3 divisions of the nervous system?
Central
Peripheral
Enteric
Define the nervous system
The communication network of the body.
What is the 1st division of the NS?
The central nervous system
Consists of the brain and spinal cord structures
Function is decision-making system
What is the 2nd division of the NS?
The peripheral nervous system
Connection between the CNS and the rest of the body
Consists of sensory and motor neurons
Has two subdivisions
Function is to gather and transmit information back and forth from the periphery to the CNS
What is the 3rd division of the NS?
The enteric nervous system
Connection between the gut and the CNS
Sheet of neurons lining the entire digestive system
Communicates with the gut and sends information to the CNS
What are the 2 subdivisions of the PNS?
Autonomic (controls self-regulated action of internal organs and glands)
Somatic (sensory input, motor output controls skeletal muscles, soma=body)
What are some functions of the parasympathetic division?
Constricts pupil
Stimulates saliva production
Constricts bronchi
Slows heart
Stimulates stomach, pancreas, and intestines
Stimulates urination
Promotes erection of genitals
What are some functions of the sympathetic division?
Dilates pupil
Inhibits saliva production
Dilates bronchi
Accelerates heart
Inhibits urination
Promotes ejaculation and vaginal contractions
What does the sympathetic subdivision do?
Arouses and expands energy
Allows voluntary movement
Often called the fight or flight system
What does the parasympathetic subdivision do?
Calms and conserves energy
Allows involuntary (maintenance)
Often called the rest and digest system
Relax system
