Functions of Nervous System Structures

Central nervous system (CNS)

• Brain stem + spinal cord

• Receive + process info; to regulate all bodily activity

Peripheral nervous system (PNS)

Transmits nerve signals to/from CNS

Meninges

System of membranes that enclose the brain + spinal cord

Dura mater

Thick, tough outer meninge layer

Pia mater

Closest meninge layer to the brain + spinal cord

Arachnoid membrane

Middle meninge layer

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

• Cool and cushion brain + spinal cord from shock/injury

• Nourish brain + spinal cord by transporting nutrients and chemical messengers

Cerebrum

Responsible for:

• All thought, judgement, memory, + emotions; and

• Controlling motor + sensory functions

Cerebellum

• Produce smooth + coordinated movements

• Maintain posture + equilibrium

Thalamus

Produces sensations by relaying impulses to/from cerebrum + sense organs

Hypothalamus

Controls vital bodily functions

What are the parts of the brainstem?

Midbrain, pons, medulla oblongata

Spinal cord

• Contains all nerves that affect limbs + lower part of the body

• Serves as pathway for impulses traveling to/from brain

• Surrounded + protected by CSF + meninges

Sympathetic nerves

• Prepare body for emergencies + stress; Arousal

• Increases: Respiratory rate, HR, blood flow

• Fight-or-flight

Parasympathetic nerves

• Return body to normal after response to stress

• Maintain normal body functions during non-stressful situations