BI315_11_Nervous system organization and sensation_flat_S25.pdf

Neural circuits

Groups of interconnected neurons that work together to detect, process, and respond to stimuli.

Afferent neurons

Neurons that carry sensory information towards the central nervous system (CNS).

Effector neurons

Neurons that send signals away from the CNS to effectors such as muscles or glands.

Monosynaptic reflex

The simplest type of reflex arc involving just one sensory neuron and one motor neuron.

Interneurons

Neurons that process information locally and connect afferent and efferent neurons.

Central nervous system (CNS)

The part of the nervous system composed of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral nervous system (PNS)

The part of the nervous system that includes all the nerves extending beyond the CNS.

Autonomic nervous system (ANS)

The division of the PNS that regulates involuntary body functions, including smooth and cardiac muscle activity.

Sympathetic activity

The part of the autonomic nervous system that prepares the body for 'fight-or-flight' responses.

Parasympathetic activity

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

Transduction

The process of converting a sensory stimulus into neuronal activity.

Sensory receptors

Specialized cells that detect sensory stimuli and convert them into electrical signals.

Coding strategies

Ways in which sensory information is represented and processed in the nervous system.

Rate coding

A coding strategy that conveys information through the frequency of action potentials.

Temporal coding

A coding strategy that conveys information based on the timing of action potentials.

Spatial coding

A coding strategy that conveys information through the activation of specific neurons.

Labeled lines

Distinct anatomical pathways for different types of sensory information.

Lateral inhibition

A neural circuit mechanism that enhances contrast in sensory perception by inhibiting the activity of neighboring neurons.