Unit 3: AOS 1 Flashcards
CNS
receives neural messages from and transmits neural messages to the peripheral nervous system
PNS
comprising every neuron in the body outside of the central nervous system
PNS branches
somatic
autonomic (sympathetic, parasympathetic)
Somatic
transmits neural messages related to voluntary motor movement
Autonomic
: regulates visceral muscles, organs and glands, and transmits neural messages to the CNS about activity
Sympathetic
activates visceral muscles, organs, glands, preparing the body to respond to a threat/stressor
Parasympathetic
maintains optimal and balanced functioning of visceral muscles, organs and glands
Sensory neuron (afferent
transmit sensory neural messages about sensations from PNS to CNS
Motor neuron (efferent)
transmit motor neural messages about movement from CNS to PNS
Interneuron
transfer impulses between sensory and motor neurons
Conscious response
deliberate and voluntary action, initiated by the brain and performed intentionally by the body
Conscious response steps
- Sensory receptors receive info from sense organs
- Sensory neurons (somatic) send info to CNS
- Brain receives and interprets info and makes a decision on movement
- Motor neurons (somatic) send info from brain to effector cells in skeletal muscles
- Skeletal muscles move accordingly
Unconscious response
automatic and involuntary action performed by the body independently of the brain
Unconscious response steps
Neurochemicals
chemical substance that transmits neural information within the nervous system
Neurotransmitters
chemical molecule that has an effect on one or two postsynaptic neurons
o Excitatory neurotransmitters: glutamate – learning & memory
o Inhibitory neurotransmitters: GABA – reduces anxiety
Neuromodulators
chemical molecule that has an effect on multiple postsynaptic neurons
o Dopamine – motor movement, pleasure
o Serotonin – mood and sleep
Synaptic plasticity
ability of synaptic connections to change over time in response to activity or experience
Sprouting
ability of dendrites and axons to develop new extensions or branches
Rerouting
ability of a neuron connected to a damaged neuron to create alternative synaptic connection with an undamaged neuron
Pruning
elimination of synaptic connections that are not adequately activated