Nervous System Flashcards
Neuron
The functional unit of the nervous system, a specialized cell that receives information and transmits it to other cells
Dendrite
A branch-like structure that functions by receiving messages from other neurons and allow the transmission of messages to the cell body
Soma
Cell body with a nucleus
Myelin Sheath
insulate the axon to increase the speed of nerve impulse transmission
Axon
tube-like structure that carries an electrical impulse form the cell body to the axon terminals for passing the impulse to another neuron
Axon Terminal
a bulb like structure on the end of neurons that releases neurotransmitters to transmit signals to other cells
Neuroglia
non-neuronal cells that support and protect the neurons, facilitates the functioning of the communications network
Node of Ranvier
electrical signals occur at gaps in the myelin sheath which speeds the conduction of nerve impulses down the axon
Neurotransmission
two or more neurons communicating with each other
Synapse
allows a neuron to move an electrical or chemical signal from one neuron to another neuron
PNS
peripheral nervous system, nerves outside the brain and spinal cord
CNS
central nervous system, includes the brain and spinal cord
Satellite Cells
provide structural and metabolic support to neurons
Schwann Cell
insulate neurons with the myelin sheath in the PNS
Oligodendrocytes
insulate multiple neurons with myelin sheath in the CNS
Major Lobes of the Cerebrum
Frontal, parietal, temporal and occipital
Cerebrum
wrinkly part of the brain that hold conscious thoughts, meaning, and language
Cerebellum
also called the little brain, is responsible for coordinating movement, balance and posture
Midbrain
controls some motor movements, vision, hearing and the sleep/wake cycle. Found deep to the cerebrum
Brainstem
connects the brain to the spinal cord
Somatic Nervous System
branch of the PNS that controls voluntary movement and sensory input
Autonomic Nervous System
branch of the PNS that controls involuntary movements and bodily functions such as breathing and digestion.
Sympathetic Nervous System
responsible for fight, flight or freeze responses, increased heart rate, blood pressure and breathing rate.
Parasympathetic Nervous System
Rest and digest response, relaxes the body after stressful or dangerous situations, increases digestion, slows heart rate and slows breathing.