Nervous System Fundamentals

Nervous System

Overview

• The nervous system is a complex system that controls and coordinates the body's functions
• Consists of two main parts: Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Central Nervous System (CNS)

• Brain and spinal cord
• Functions:
  • Controls and integrates body functions
  • Interprets and processes sensory information
  • Facilitates thought, movement, and sensation
• Divided into:
  • Cerebrum (largest part of the brain, responsible for higher-level functions)
  • Cerebellum (coordinates movement and balance)
  • Brainstem (connects cerebrum to spinal cord, regulates basic functions)

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

• Nerves that connect CNS to the rest of the body
• Functions:
  • Transmits sensory information to CNS
  • Transmits motor signals from CNS to muscles and glands
• Divided into:
  • Somatic Nervous System (controls voluntary movements)
  • Autonomic Nervous System (controls involuntary functions, such as heart rate and digestion)

Neurons

• Basic units of the nervous system
• Consist of:
  • Dendrites (receive signals)
  • Cell body (integrates signals)
  • Axon (transmits signals)
  • Terminal buttons (release neurotransmitters)
• Function: transmit and process information through electrical and chemical signals

Neurotransmitters

• Chemical messengers that transmit signals between neurons
• Examples:
  • Acetylcholine (involved in muscle contraction and memory formation)
  • Dopamine (involved in motivation and reward processing)
  • Serotonin (involved in mood regulation and sleep)

Glial Cells

• Non-neuronal cells that support and maintain the nervous system
• Functions:
  • Provide structural support
  • Maintain the blood-brain barrier
  • Facilitate neurotransmission
  • Remove waste and debris

Test your knowledge of the nervous system, including the Central Nervous System, Peripheral Nervous System, neurons, neurotransmitters, and glial cells. Learn about the structure, function, and importance of each component.