Spinal cord and CNS protection

Question 1

What is the role of the spinal cord?

Answer 1

Processing spinal reflex actions, allowing communication between the brain and spinal nerves.

Question 2

What are the three layers of the meninges?

Answer 2

Dura mater (tough outer layer), arachnoid (web-like middle layer), pia mater (delicate, highly vascular inner layer)

Question 3

What is the purpose of cerebrospinal fluid?

Answer 3

Cushions and protects the CNS from harmful blows.
Contains dissolved nutrients from the blood that can be delivered to neurons. Also removed metabolic wastes from neurons and returns them to the bloodstream.
Supports the brain, allowing it to float upright.

Question 4

What are the layers of protection of the brain, from exterior to interior?

Answer 4

Cranium
Dura mater
Arachnoid
Sub-arachnoid space (CSF)
Pia mater

Question 5

Where is cerebrospinal fluid in the spinal cord?

Answer 5

Central canal.

Question 6

Are tracts in the spinal cord unmyelinated, myelinated, or either/both?

Answer 6

Myelinated.