Central Nervous System Quiz
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Questions and Answers

Which structure is NOT part of the central nervous system (CNS)?

  • Spinal nerves
  • Brain
  • Spinal cord
  • Cranial nerves (correct)

What is the primary function of astrocytes in the CNS?

  • Produce cerebrospinal fluid
  • Transmit nerve impulses
  • Form the blood-brain barrier (correct)
  • Perform immune responses

Which characteristic is NOT associated with neurons?

  • Receive nerve impulses
  • Transmit impulses
  • Undergo mitosis (correct)
  • High metabolic rate

What do dendrites primarily do?

<p>Receive nerve impulses (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which cell type is primarily responsible for supporting and nourishing neurons?

<p>Glial cells (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a function of the central nervous system (CNS)?

<p>Evaluate information and determine responses (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of glial cell is primarily involved in immune response in the CNS?

<p>Microglial cells (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the axon hillock's role?

<p>Initiate nerve impulse transmission (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which structure in the brain serves as the final relay point for sensory information before it reaches the cerebral cortex?

<p>Thalamus (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which region of the brainstem is involved in regulating autonomic functions such as heart rate and blood pressure?

<p>Medulla oblongata (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What function does the pineal gland serve within the epithalamus?

<p>Secreting melatonin (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the brain is primarily responsible for coordinating and fine-tuning skeletal muscle movements?

<p>Cerebellum (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component of the spinal cord carries sensory information to the brain?

<p>Posterior (dorsal) roots (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the cardiac center located in the medulla oblongata?

<p>Regulation of heart rate and contraction strength (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the tapered end of the spinal cord known as?

<p>Conus medullaris (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of oligodendrocytes?

<p>To form myelin for CNS axons (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which layer of the meninges is the innermost and contains delicate connective tissue?

<p>Pia mater (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which cell type surrounds neuron cell bodies in the peripheral nervous system?

<p>Satellite cells (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which segment of the brain produces dopamine and is involved in auditory reflexes?

<p>Midbrain (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is contained within the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord?

<p>Fat, blood vessels, and connective tissue (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the perineurium in nerve structure?

<p>Encases fascicles of axons (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which structure is the primary site for conscious thought processes in the brain?

<p>Cerebrum (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?

<p>To provide buoyancy and protection (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which layer of the meninges is the outermost layer?

<p>Dura mater (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which lobe of the cerebrum is primarily responsible for visual interpretation?

<p>Occipital lobe (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of Schwann cells in the PNS?

<p>Form myelin sheaths around nerve fibers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the brain connects the left and right cerebral hemispheres?

<p>Corpus callosum (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of the meninges?

<p>Transmit nerve signals (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the axon in a neuron?

<p>Transmit nerve impulses to other cells (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the function of ependymal cells?

<p>Produce cerebrospinal fluid (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic differentiates neurons from glial cells?

<p>Ability to transmit impulses (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of astrocytes within the central nervous system?

<p>Form the blood-brain barrier (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of a neuron is primarily responsible for receiving signals?

<p>Dendrites (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of glial cells in the nervous system?

<p>Support and protect neurons (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the central nervous system (CNS) is NOT true?

<p>It includes cranial and spinal nerves. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic of neurons?

<p>They have an extensive lifespan. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of neuroglia cell is responsible for forming myelin sheaths around nerve fibers in the peripheral nervous system?

<p>Schwann cells (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What connective tissue surrounds each individual axon in a nerve?

<p>Endoneurium (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which region of the brain is primarily associated with the regulation of voluntary motor functions?

<p>Frontal lobe (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following structures is involved in protecting blood vessels in the brain?

<p>Pia mater (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain?

<p>Providing buoyancy and protection (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which layer of meninges contains the rich blood supply that nourishes the brain?

<p>Pia mater (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the substantial feature that separates the left and right cerebral hemispheres?

<p>Longitudinal fissure (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the central nervous system contains unmyelinated axons and is involved in processing information?

<p>Gray matter (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What feature of the cerebrum is primarily responsible for interpreting sensory information?

<p>Cerebral cortex (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of glial cell surrounds neuron cell bodies in the peripheral nervous system?

<p>Satellite cells (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the thalamus in the brain?

<p>Relay point for sensory information (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which structure secretes melatonin to help regulate circadian rhythms?

<p>Pineal gland (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the brainstem is primarily responsible for regulating breathing?

<p>Pons (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the infundibulum in the endocrine system?

<p>Attaches to the pituitary gland (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What kind of information do posterior (dorsal) horns of the spinal cord primarily process?

<p>Sensory input from the body (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the function of the medullary respiratory center?

<p>Regulates respiratory rate (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of nuclei is primarily found in the lateral horns of the spinal cord?

<p>Autonomic motor nuclei (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'cauda equina' refer to in the spinal cord?

<p>A collection of spinal nerves (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which zone carries both motor and sensory axons in the spinal cord?

<p>Spinal nerve (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primary function does the midbrain serve regarding sensory processing?

<p>Auditory reflex and dopamine production (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The brain and spinal cord, which are the control center of the nervous system.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

All nervous tissue outside the CNS. It includes the nerves that connect the CNS to the rest of the body.

Neurons

Specialized cells that transmit signals throughout the nervous system.

Glial Cells

Cells that support and protect neurons. They provide structure, nutrients and help with insulation.

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Cell Body (Soma)

The main part of a neuron where the nucleus is located. It's the control center of the neuron.

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Dendrites

Short, branching extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons.

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Axon

A long, slender extension of a neuron that transmits signals to other neurons, muscles, or glands.

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Astrocytes

A type of glial cell in the CNS that forms the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain from harmful substances in the blood.

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Oligodendrocytes

A type of neuroglia cell found in the Central Nervous System (CNS) that generates myelin, a fatty substance that insulates axons.

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Satellite cells

A type of neuroglia cell in the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) that surrounds neuron cell bodies, providing support and protection.

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Schwann cells

A type of neuroglia cell in the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) that forms myelin sheaths around nerve fibers, insulating and speeding up nerve impulse transmission.

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Nerve

A bundle of axons in the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS), often surrounded by connective tissue.

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Endoneurium

A type of connective tissue that surrounds each individual axon within a nerve.

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Perineurium

Connective tissue that surrounds groups of axons called fascicles within a nerve.

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Epineurium

The outermost layer of connective tissue that surrounds the entire nerve, providing overall protection.

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Gray matter

The outer layer of the brain and spinal cord, composed of cell bodies, dendrites, and unmyelinated axons.

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White matter

The inner layer of the brain and spinal cord, composed primarily of myelinated axons.

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Meninges

Specialized connective tissue that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord.

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Which cerebral lobe is responsible for hearing interpretation?

The temporal lobe is responsible for interpreting auditory information like speech and music. It's like the brain's sound system.

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Which cerebral lobe is responsible for higher thought processes such as decision making?

The frontal lobe is responsible for higher brain functions such as planning, reasoning, and decision making. It's like the brain's executive office.

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What is the thalamus?

The thalamus is a part of the diencephalon, which acts as a relay center for sensory information. It receives sensory input and directs it to the correct area of the brain for processing. It's like the brain's central switchboard.

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What is the function of the pineal gland?

The pineal gland is located in the epithalamus and primarily produces melatonin, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle. It's like the brain's internal clock.

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What is the function of the hypothalamus?

The hypothalamus is a small but critical area in the brain that controls vital functions such as body temperature, hunger, thirst, and sleep-wake cycles. It's like the brain's control center.

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What is the brainstem?

The brainstem connects the cerebrum to the spinal cord and processes vital functions, including breathing, heartbeat, and reflexes. It's like the brain's lifeline.

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What are the three parts of the brainstem?

The midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata are the three main parts of the brainstem. Each plays a crucial role in controlling various body functions.

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What is the function of the midbrain?

The midbrain plays a crucial role in auditory reflexes, movement control, and dopamine production, a neurotransmitter involved in pleasure and motivation. It's like the brain's sensory hub.

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What is the function of the pons?

The pons, located in the brainstem, is responsible for regulating breathing, sleep, and movement. It's like the brain's respiratory center.

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What is the function of the medulla oblongata?

The medulla oblongata, located in the brainstem, controls vital functions like breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. It's like the brain's life support system.

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What part of the brain is responsible for hearing?

The temporal lobe is responsible for interpreting sounds. Think of it as the brain's sound processing center.

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What part of the brain is involved in higher thinking like planning?

The frontal lobe is responsible for higher brain functions such as decision making, planning, and reasoning.

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What is the role of the thalamus in the brain?

The thalamus is like a relay station for sensory information. It receives sensory input from the body and directs it to the appropriate part of the brain for processing.

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What does the hypothalamus do?

The hypothalamus is a small but important part of the brain that controls many vital bodily functions, including temperature, hunger, thirst, and sleep-wake cycles.

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What is the function of the brain stem?

The brainstem is a vital structure connecting the cerebrum to the spinal cord. It controls essential functions like breathing, heart rate, and reflexes.

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What does the pons do in the brainstem?

The pons is responsible for regulating breathing, sleep, and movement.

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What are the functions of the medulla oblongata?

The medulla oblongata controls vital functions like breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure.

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What is myelin?

A fatty substance produced by oligodendrocytes in the CNS and Schwann cells in the PNS that insulates axons and speeds up nerve impulse transmission.

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What are satellite cells?

These cells surround neuron cell bodies in the PNS and provide support and protection, similar to astrocytes in the CNS.

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What is a nerve?

A bundle of axons in the PNS, often surrounded by connective tissue.

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What is the epineurium?

The outermost layer of connective tissue surrounding a nerve, providing overall protection.

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What is the perineurium?

The layer of connective tissue that surrounds individual fascicles within a nerve.

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What is the endoneurium?

The layer of connective tissue that surrounds individual axons within a nerve.

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What is gray matter?

The outer layer of the brain and spinal cord, composed of cell bodies, dendrites, and unmyelinated axons.

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What is white matter?

The inner layer of the brain and spinal cord, composed primarily of myelinated axons.

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What are the meninges?

A protective layer of connective tissue surrounding both the brain and spinal cord.

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What is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?

A fluid found in the ventricles of the brain and the spinal canal that provides buoyancy, protection, and transports nutrients and wastes.

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Study Notes

Nervous System Overview

  • The nervous system is divided into two main parts: Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
  • The CNS comprises the brain and spinal cord
  • The PNS includes cranial nerves, spinal nerves, and ganglia

CNS and PNS Functions

  • Collecting Information: Receptors detect internal and external changes and relay this information to the CNS.
  • Processing and Evaluating Information: The CNS processes the sensory input and determines an appropriate response.
  • Responding to Information: The CNS initiates nerve impulses to effectors (muscles or glands) to carry out the response.

Nervous System Cells

  • Neurons: These electrically excitable cells transmit and receive impulses.
    • Dendrites receive signals
    • Axons transmit signals
    • Cell body (soma) contains the nucleus
    • Axon hillock is where axon connects to cell body
  • Glial Cells: These support and protect neurons; they are more numerous than neurons. Various types, including astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, and ependymal cells have different functions, such as forming the blood-brain barrier.

Neuron Characteristics

  • High metabolic rate
  • Extreme longevity
  • Mostly non-mitotic
  • Have a cell body and one or more processes

Structures in a Typical Neuron

  • Cell body, biosynthetic center
  • Dendrites, short processes that branch from the cell body and receive nerve impulses
  • Axons, transmit nerve impulses from cell body to other cells or effectors

Two Major Neuroglia of the PNS

  • Satellite cells: Surround neuron cell bodies in the PNS
  • Schwann cells: Form myelin sheaths around nerve fibers in the PNS for insulation; also helps in regenerating fibers

Nerve Bundle Structure

  • Cable-like bundle of axons
  • Endoneurium: Wraps around each axon
  • Perineurium: Wraps around fascicles (bundles of axons)
  • Epineurium: Wraps around the entire nerve

CNS Neuroglia

  • Astrocytes: Bind blood vessels to neurons, form blood brain barrier, support, and nourish neurons.
  • Ependymal cells: Line various regions, produce cerebrospinal fluid
  • Microglial cells: Immune response for CNS
  • Oligodendrocytes: Generate myelin (insulation) for axons

The Human Brain

  • Four major regions: Cerebrum, Diencephalon, Brainstem, Cerebellum

Gray and White Matter in the CNS

  • Gray matter: Contains cell bodies, dendrites, and unmyelinated axons, forms the cortex (outer layer) of the brain and clusters (deep) called nuclei.
  • White matter: Contains myelinated axons, located beneath the gray matter

Brain Protection

  • Bony cranium
  • Protective connective tissue, meninges (dura mater, arachnoid mater, pia mater)
  • Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
  • Blood-brain barrier

Ventricles of the Brain

  • Four ventricles containing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that act as buoyancy support, transport nutrients, and removes wastes.
  • Two lateral ventricles
  • Third ventricle
  • Fourth ventricle

Cranial Meninges

  • Three layers: Dura mater, Arachnoid mater, Pia mater
  • Functions: Separate brain and bones, protect blood vessels, and contain CSF

Cerebral Hemispheres

  • Cerebrum is location of higher thought processes
  • Corpus callosum connects the left and right cerebral hemispheres

Lobes of the Cerebral Cortex

  • Frontal lobe- voluntary motor function, concentration, verbal communication, decision making, and personality
  • Parietal lobe- touch sensation and spatial positioning interpretation
  • Occipital lobe- visual interpretation.
  • Temportal lobe- hearing and smell interpretation
  • All include insula (deep to temporal), taste interpretation, visceral sensations.

Diencephalon

  • Thalamus relays sensory information to correct regions of the cerebrum for processing.
  • Hypothalamus controls many autonomic nervous systems (subconcious) functions like the endocrine system, temperature regulation, sleep/wake cycle, emotions, and intake of water and food.
  • Epithalamus: Contains the pineal gland (circadian rhythm and melatonin) and habenular nuclei (stress response, pain, processing)

Brainstem

  • Passageway from cerebrum to spinal cord
  • Contains autonomic centers for many physiological processes and reflexes
  • Regions: Midbrain, pons, medulla oblongata

Midbrain

  • Cerebral aqueduct connects ventricles
  • Auditory reflex/startle response
  • Dopamine production

Pons

  • Regulates breathing.
  • Passageway for many fibers

Medulla Oblongata

  • Contains autonomic nuclei for various functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate
  • Other involved nuclei in coughing, sneezing, swallowing, and vomiting

Cerebellum

  • Coordinates and fine-tunes skeletal muscle
  • Receives proprioceptive sensory input
  • Contains stores of movement patterns
  • Aids in equilibrium and posture

Cranial Nerves

  • Twelve pairs of nerves that originate directly from the brain, innervating the head region and some other organs

Spinal Cord

  • Signals travel to and from the brain to the rest of the body
  • Processes spinal reflexes
  • Spinal nerves connect to spinal cord and act as a pathway for sensory and motor impulses

Spinal Cord Structures/Protection

  • Shorter than vertebral canal
  • Conus medullaris: tapered end of spinal cord
  • Cauda equina: group of axons inferior to conus medullaris
  • Meninges: dura mater, arachnoid mater, pia mater
  • Epidural space: contains fat and blood vessels
  • Subdural space: separates dura from arachnoid (contains CSF)
  • Spinal nerves arise from spinal cord and travel through intervertebral foramen; both sensory and motor axons

Spinal Gray Matter

  • Dendrites, cell bodies, unmyelinated axons, interneurons, and glial cells

Spinal White Matter

  • Myelinated axons

Neuron Pathways and Nuclei Locations

  • Posterior (dorsal) horns: receive sensory input from the body
  • Anterior (ventral) horns: Send signals to skeletal muscles (conscious)
  • Lateral horns: Send signals to organs and glands (unconscious)

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Description

Test your knowledge about the central nervous system (CNS) with this quiz. Covering various structures, functions, and cell types associated with the CNS, it challenges your understanding of neuroanatomy and physiology. Perfect for students studying biology or neuroscience.

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