Central Nervous System (CNS) Overview

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the Central Nervous System (CNS) based on the provided lecture notes.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The complex of nerve tissues that controls the activities of the body. It comprises the brain and spinal cord.

Neural Tube

The embryonic structure that forms the basis for the central nervous system.

Prosencephalon

The forebrain, one of the three primary brain vesicles formed during development.

Mesencephalon

The midbrain, one of the three primary brain vesicles.

Rhombencephalon

The hindbrain, one of the three primary brain vesicles.

Cerebral Hemispheres

The two halves of the brain that make up the largest part of the brain, responsible for higher brain functions.

Diencephalon

Part of the forebrain that includes structures such as the thalamus and hypothalamus.

Cerebellum

The region of the brain located at the back, responsible for coordination of voluntary movements and balance.

Thalamus

The brain structure that serves as a relay station for sensory information going to the cerebral cortex.

Hypothalamus

The part of the brain that controls the autonomic nervous system and regulates vital functions such as temperature, hunger, and thirst.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

A clear fluid that surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord, providing support and nourishment.

Convolutions

The folds of the cerebral cortex that increase the surface area of the brain.

Dura Mater

The tough outermost membrane covering the brain and spinal cord.

Arachnoid Mater

The middle layer of the meninges that resembles a spider web.

Pia Mater

The delicate inner layer of the meninges that clings to the surface of the brain.

Alzheimer's Disease

A degenerative brain disease characterized by memory loss, confusion, and changes in behavior.

Meningitis

An inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

Spinal Cord

The cylindrical structure of nervous tissue that extends from the brainstem down the vertebral column.

Poliomyelitis

A viral disease that may affect the spinal cord and lead to paralysis.

Epithalamus

A small region of the brain containing the pineal gland, involved in regulating sleep-wake cycles.

Cerebral Cortex

The outer layer of the cerebrum, composed of gray matter, responsible for consciousness and higher functions.

Tracts

Bundles of nerve fibers in the central nervous system.