bio lecture 9

Flashcards focusing on key vocabulary terms related to the nervous system, covering definitions and roles within the system.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Consists of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Includes the somatic and autonomic nervous systems.

Somatic Nervous System

Responsible for voluntary control of body movements.

Autonomic Nervous System

Controls involuntary bodily functions.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the fight or flight response.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic nervous system that promotes rest and digestion.

Neurons

The primary cells of the nervous system responsible for transmitting information.

Glial Cells

Supportive non-neuronal cells in the nervous system.

Myelination

The process of insulating axons with myelin to increase signal transmission speed.

Blood Brain Barrier (BBB)

Protective barrier that controls what can enter the CNS.

Dopaminergic Neuron

A neuron that releases dopamine as its neurotransmitter.

Action Potential

A temporary change in electrical potential across a neuron membrane, crucial for signal transmission.

Excitatory Neurotransmitters

Substances that increase the likelihood of a postsynaptic neuron firing an action potential.

Inhibitory Neurotransmitters

Substances that decrease the likelihood of a postsynaptic neuron firing an action potential.

Nodes of Ranvier

Gaps in the myelin sheath of axons where action potentials are generated.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

A disease characterized by the destruction of the myelin sheath in the CNS.

Astrocytes

Glial cells that support neurons, maintain the blood-brain barrier, and regulate nutrient flow.

Microglia

Specialized immune cells in the CNS that act as the brain's primary defense.

Epidermal Cells

Cells that line the ventricles of the brain and produce cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

Fluid that cushions the brain and spinal cord, providing protection and nutrients.

Teeter Totter Model of Neuron Firing

A metaphor illustrating the balance of excitatory and inhibitory signals that determine if a neuron will fire.

Synapse

The junction between two neurons where neurotransmitters are released.