Ch. 3 Flashcards
long strings of genetic material known as deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)
Chromosomes
A sequence of DNA that controls or partially controls physical characteristics
Gene
The genetic makeup of an individual
genotype
Refers to the individuals inherited physical characteristics which are a combination of genetic and environmental influences
phenotype
A sudden permanent change in a gene
Mutation
serve as interconnected information processors that are essential for all of the tasks of the nervous system, the central building bloscks of the nervous system.
Neurons
drugs that treat
psychiatric symptoms by restoring neurotransmitter balance.
Psychotropic medications
chemicals that mimic a neurotransmitter at the receptor site
Agonist
blocks or
impedes the normal activity of a neurotransmitter at the receptor.
Antagonist
comprised of the brain and spinal cord;
Central Nervous System
connects the CNS to the rest of the body
Peripheral nervous system
associated with activities traditionally thought of as conscious or voluntary
Somatic Nervous System
controls our internal organs and glands and is generally considered to be
outside the realm of voluntary control
Autonomic Nervous System
Sub system of the Autonomic Nervous System that prepares the body for stress related operations.
Sympathetic nervous system
Sub system of the Autonomic Nervous System helps return the body to routine, day to day operations
Parasympathetic Nervous system
A state of equilibrium or balance
Homeostasis
refers to how the
nervous system can change and adapt
Neuroplasticity
The surface of the brain is known as the
Cerebral cortex
the deep groove that separates the
brain into two halves or hemispheres
longitudinal fissure
The largest part of the brain where the two hemispheres of the cerebral cortex are
Forebrain
What are the four lobes of the brain
Frontal Lobe, Temporal Lobe, Parietal Lobe and Occipital Lobe
involved in processing both emotion and memory, the sense of smell projects directly here.
Limbic System
receives messages from muscles, tendons, joints, and structures in
our ear to control balance, coordination, movement, and motor skills. Thought to play a role in forming muscle memory and new task
Cerebellum
Like neurotransmitters, these are chemical messengers that must bind to a receptor in
order to send their signal. However, unlike neurotransmitters, which are released in close proximity to cells
with their receptors, they are secreted into the bloodstream and travel throughout the body, affecting any
cells that contain receptors for them
Hormones
Gland that releases hormones that regulate growth, metabolism, and appetite.
Thyroid
secrete hormones involved in the stress response, such as
epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (noradrenaline)
Adrenal
