Nervous System (Sheep Brain Dissection)

Flashcards on key terms and definitions from the lecture on the nervous system and sheep brain dissection.

Meninges

Coverings of the central nervous system (CNS) that are continuous with the meninges of the spinal cord.

Dura mater

The outermost meningeal layer that is tough and forms valveless venous sinuses for venous drainage.

Arachnoid mater

The middle layer of the meninges characterized by a web-like structure.

Subarachnoid space

The space between the arachnoid and pia mater that contains cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Pia mater

The innermost meningeal layer tightly bound to the CNS, following the contours of the brain.

Cerebellum

Part of the brain responsible for coordination of movement, balance, and motor memory.

Cerebrum

The largest part of the brain associated with higher brain functions such as reasoning and decision making.

Grey matter

Region of the brain that consists of neuron cell bodies and is located on the outside (cerebral cortex).

White matter

Region of the brain that consists of myelinated axons and is located on the inside.

Gyri

Ridges on the surface of the brain that increase its surface area.

Sulci

Grooves on the surface of the brain that separate the gyri.

Blood Brain Barrier (BBB)

A selective permeability barrier that separates the circulating blood from the brain and protects the CNS.

Thalamus

Part of the diencephalon that filters and sorts information before sending it to other brain areas.

Hypothalamus

Region of the brain that connects the nervous system to the endocrine system, regulating vital functions.

Optic chiasm

The crossing point of the optic nerves where visual information is processed.

Hippocampus

A seahorse-shaped structure involved in the consolidation of memory.

Ventricles

Chambers in the brain filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), important for cushioning and buoyancy of the CNS.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

Fluid that cushions the CNS and is continuously produced in the brain ventricles.

Meningitis

Inflammation of the meninges, usually caused by an infection of the CSF.