Central Nervous System Functions Flashcards
What are the main components of the nervous system?
Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
CNS includes the brain and spinal cord; PNS includes nerves and ganglia.
What are neurons?
Excitable cells that produce action potentials and cause the release of neurotransmitters
Neurotransmitters change the activity of target cells.
What is the function of glial cells?
Support, nourish, and protect neurons
Also known as neuroglia.
What is the role of the Central Nervous System (CNS)?
Contains integrating centers that coordinate the body’s responses to stimuli.
What is the function of the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)?
Transmits information from sensory receptors to integrating centers in the CNS and from integrating centers to effectors.
What are afferent neurons responsible for?
Transmitting sensory information to the CNS.
What is the role of interneurons?
Coordinate responses within the CNS.
What do efferent neurons do?
Activate effectors in the PNS.
What is a nucleus in the context of interneurons?
A cluster of cell bodies.
What is white matter composed of?
Bundles of axons.
What are the ascending tracts of the spinal cord responsible for?
Relaying information toward the brain.
What are the descending tracts of the spinal cord responsible for?
Relaying information away from the brain.
Define a reflex.
An involuntary response to a stimulus.
What are the components of a reflex arc?
- Sensory receptor
- Afferent neuron
- Integrating center
- Efferent neuron
- Effector
What is a spinal reflex?
A reflex where the integrating center is located in the spinal cord.
What is an example of a spinal reflex?
Knee jerk reflex.
What general functions does the brain perform?
Coordinates cranial reflexes and integrates sensory information.
Name the main regions of the brain.
- Cerebrum
- Diencephalon
- Cerebellum
- Brainstem
- Limbic system
What is the largest region of the brain?
Cerebrum.
What is the role of the thalamus?
Acts as a relay station for sensory information.
What functions does the hypothalamus regulate?
- Thermoregulation
- Feelings of hunger or fullness
- Thirst
What does the cerebellum coordinate?
Voluntary movement, balance, and posture.
What are the three parts of the brainstem?
- Medulla oblongata
- Pons
- Midbrain
What does the brainstem control?
Reflexes involved in breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion.
What is the limbic system involved in?
Producing emotional responses, forming memories, and learning and motivation.
