Introduction to Neuroanatomy and Cranial Nerves

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on neuroanatomy and cranial nerves.

Olfactory bulb

A structure in the brain responsible for processing smells.

Optic nerve

The cranial nerve responsible for transmitting visual information from the retina to the brain.

Pineal gland

A gland in the brain that produces hormones related to light and regulates sleep patterns.

Cranial nerves

Nerves that emerge directly from the brain, bypassing the spinal cord, mostly responsible for sensory and motor functions.

Somatic nervous system

The part of the peripheral nervous system associated with voluntary control of body movements.

Autonomic nervous system

A part of the nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate and digestion.

Parasympathetic nervous system

The division of the autonomic nervous system that promotes 'rest and digest' functions.

Sympathetic nervous system

The division of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the 'fight or flight' response.

Neural crest cells

Cells that form during the development of the nervous system and contribute to various structures, including some nerves.

Vestibulocochlear nerve

The cranial nerve that transmits sound and balance information from the inner ear to the brain.

Motor nerves

Nerves that carry signals from the central nervous system to muscles for movement.

Sensory nerves

Nerves that carry sensory information from the body to the central nervous system.

Nerve plexus

A network of intersecting nerves that provide complex motor and sensory functions.

Trigeminal nerve

The cranial nerve responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions such as biting and chewing.