Central and Peripheral Nervous System Quiz

Central Nervous System (CNS)

• The CNS comprises the brain and spinal cord
• Grey matter contains neuronal cell bodies
• White matter contains myelinated axons
• Meninges are protective layers of the CNS

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

• The PNS connects the CNS to the rest of the body
• It comprises all nerves outside the CNS

Action Potential Generation

• Resting potential: Neuron is polarized
• Stimulus causes depolarization
• Threshold: Voltage-gated Na+ channels open if reached
• Rapid depolarization: Na+ influx
• Repolarization: K+ channels open, K+ exits
• Hyperpolarization: Briefly more negative, then return to resting potential

Ventricular System

• Protects the CNS by producing CSF
• Cushions the brain and spinal cord
• Maintains pressure

Somatic Nervous System

• Responsible for voluntary movements

Nervous System Function

• Integrates the internal state of the body with the environment to guide behavior

Neurotransmitters

• Glutamate is a main excitatory neurotransmitter of projection neurons
• GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) is typically inhibitory
• Dopamine can be either excitatory or inhibitory depending on receptor type

Synapses

• Allow neurons to transmit signals to other neurons or effectors

Brain Structures

• Brainstem is part of the CNS
• Dura, arachnoid, and pia mater form the meninges that protect the CNS.
• Sagittal, Coronal, and Axial (Horizontal) are the three main anatomical orientation planes of the brain
• The neural tube gives rise to the nervous system
• Projection neurons transmit signals over long distances in the nervous system
• Ganglion is equivalent to "nucleus" in the PNS
• Ventricular system circulates cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for cushioning and nutrient transport.
• Brainstem consists of the Medulla, Pons, and Midbrain

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

• Two main divisions: Sympathetic and parasympathetic
• Sympathetic division is responsible for the "fight or flight" response.

Test your knowledge on the structure and function of the Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems. This quiz covers key concepts such as action potential generation, the role of neurotransmitters, and the protective layers of the CNS. Challenge yourself to see how well you understand the nervous system!