Neuroscience Part Two Flashcards
Endocrine system
The body’s communication system uses hormones. Changes caused by this system tend to be slower and last longer.
Glands and hormones
Glands secrete hormones.
Hormones travel through the bloodstream, not the neural pathways like neurotransmitters.
Pituitary gland
The “master gland.” Secretes many different hormones, some of which affect other glands.
Thyroid gland
Effects metabolism
Parathyroids
Help regulate the level of calcium in the blood.
Adrenal glands
Inner part helps trigger the “fight-or-flight response.
Pancreas
Regulates blood sugar levels
Testis
Secretes male sex hormones
Ovary
Secretes female sex hormones
Adrenaline
Arousal, fight-or-flight, from the adrenal gland
Leptin
From fat cells saying “I’m full”
Ghrelin
From stomach saying “I’m hungry”
Melatonin
Tells you to go to sleep when it’s dark and can be affected by other lights such as devices.
Oxytocin
Attachment and bonding such as during physical affection, sex, and birth.
EEG
Electroencephalogram. Evaluates electrical activity in the brain.
CT scan
Computed tomography. Uses multiple X-rays from different angles to produce cross-section images.
PET
Positron emission tomography. Radioactive fluid is injected into the bloodstream. Neurons light up when part of the brain is used.
MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging. Uses magnetic fields to generate pictures of organs.
fMRI
Functional magnetic resonance imaging. Mostly used in the brain. It detects blood flow changes and where blood in the brain is going. Isn’t fully reliable and still has bugs.
Thalamus
Sensory control center, directs sensations to appropriate areas of the brain.
Reticular formation
Controls alertness (circadian rhythm and consciousness) and multitasking.
Medulla
Controls heart rate and breathing
Brainstem
It’s stacked ontop of the spinal cord with the most primitive parts of the brain, put deepest for the most protection and best chance of survival.
Limbic system
Structures in the midbrain. Emotions and basic survival
