Central nervous system

Cerebrum

The largest area of the brain, responsible for higher thoughts, initiating skeletal muscle movements, sensations, and complex processing.

Hemispheres

The left and right divisions of the cerebrum, separated by the longitudinal fissure.

Gyri

Raised ridges on the surface of the cerebrum that increase its surface area.

Sulci

Troughs or grooves on the surface of the cerebrum that increase its surface area.

Diencephalon

The central part of the brain that includes the thalamus, hypothalamus, and epithalamus.

Thalamus

A relay station for sensory information to the appropriate sensory cortex.

Hypothalamus

Regulates body temperature and homeostatic mechanisms via the pituitary gland.

Pineal gland

Part of the epithalamus that regulates day/night cycles through the secretion of melatonin.

Brainstem

The part of the brain that includes the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata, responsible for autonomic functions.

Medulla oblongata

Part of the brainstem that regulates respiratory rate and cardiac function.

Cerebellum

Also known as the little brain; it is responsible for fine motor coordination and balance.

Conus medullaris

The inferior tapered end of the spinal cord, typically found at the L1-L2 region.

Cauda equina

A bundle of spinal nerves that branch out from the conus medullaris to innervate lower regions.

Filum terminale

An extension of the pia mater that stabilizes the spinal cord by connecting it to the coccyx.

White matter

Composed of axons and oligodendrocytes; it contains ascending and descending tracts.

Gray matter

Composed of neurons and unmyelinated fibers; includes dorsal horns and is involved in sensory processing.

Ventral root

Carries motor information from the spinal cord.

Dorsal root

Carries sensory information to the spinal cord, including a ganglion.

Meninges

The protective covering of the brain and spinal cord, comprising three layers: dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater.

Epidural space

Space between the dura mater and the skull.

Subdural space

Space between the dura mater and the arachnoid mater.

Subarachnoid space

Space between the arachnoid mater and the pia mater.

Cerebrospinal fluid

Fluid that circulates through the brain's ventricles, subarachnoid space, and central canal of the spinal cord.