What is the sensory function of the nervous system?
Receptors detect stimuli and transmit sensory information into brain and spinal cord
This function is crucial for perceiving the environment.
What is the integrative function of the nervous system?
Analyses sensory information and produces a response or non-response
This function is essential for decision-making processes.
What is the motor function of the nervous system?
Effectors stimulated to carry out determined response e.g. muscle contracting or secretion of a gland
This function enables physical actions based on sensory input.
What are the two main components of the nervous system?
- Central nervous system (CNS)
- Peripheral nervous system (PNS)
The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS includes all nervous tissue outside the CNS.
What does the central nervous system (CNS) consist of?
- Brain
- Spinal cord
The CNS is the source of thoughts, emotions, and memories.
What does the peripheral nervous system (PNS) include?
- Cranial nerves
- Spinal nerves
- Ganglia
- Enteric plexuses in small intestine
- Sensory receptors in skin
The PNS connects the CNS to the rest of the body.
What is the primary function of a neuron?
Connects all regions of the body to the brain and spinal cord, providing unique functions of the nervous system
Neurons are essential for processing and transmitting information.
What is the structure of a neuron composed of?
- Cell body (soma)
- Dendrites
- Axon
Each part plays a critical role in the neuron’s function.
What is the role of dendrites in a neuron?
Contain numerous receptor sites for binding chemical messengers from other cells
Dendrites are crucial for receiving signals from other neurons.
What is the function of an axon?
Propagates the action potential/nerve impulse to another neuron, muscle, or gland
Axons are essential for transmitting signals over distances.
What are the three structural classifications of neurons?
- Multipolar neurons
- Bipolar neurons
- Unipolar neurons
Each type has distinct structures and functions in the nervous system.
What are astrocytes?
Largest and most numerous neuroglia, providing structural support and forming part of the blood-brain barrier
Astrocytes play a role in maintaining the chemical environment for neurons.
What is the function of oligodendrocytes?
Form and maintain the myelin sheath around axons in the CNS
Myelin sheaths are crucial for the rapid conduction of nerve impulses.
What do microglia do?
Function as phagocytes, removing cellular debris and damaged nervous tissue
Microglia are important for immune defense in the CNS.
What is the role of ependymal cells?
Line the ventricles of the brain and assist in the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
Ependymal cells help maintain the environment of the CNS.
What do Schwann cells do in the PNS?
Wrap around the axons of neurons and are involved in axon regeneration
Schwann cells are essential for repairing damaged nerves.
What are the meninges?
Three protective connective tissue coverings that protect the brain and spinal cord
The meninges consist of dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater.
What is the blood-brain barrier?
A protective barrier formed by endothelial cells with tight junctions that separates brain tissue from harmful substances in the blood
The blood-brain barrier is crucial for maintaining the brain’s environment.
What is the Circle of Willis?
A circular arrangement of interconnected arteries at the base of the brain ensuring a continuous blood supply
This structure provides collateral circulation in case of arterial blockage.
What is the function of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?
- Mechanical protection
- Homeostatic function
- Circulation
CSF plays a vital role in protecting the brain and maintaining its environment.
What are the gross anatomical structures of the brain?
- Brain stem
- Cerebellum
- Diencephalon
- Cerebrum
Each structure has specific functions vital for overall brain activity.
What is the function of the medulla oblongata?
- Regulates rate and force of heartbeat
- Adjusts basic rhythm of breathing
The medulla oblongata is essential for autonomic functions.
What does the cerebral cortex do?
Controls voluntary muscle contraction and is involved in higher-order thinking
The cerebral cortex is crucial for cognitive functions.
What is a dermatome?
An area of skin mostly supplied by a single spinal nerve
Dermatomes are important for understanding sensory innervation.
