Central Nervous System Overview

These flashcards cover key terminology and concepts related to the central nervous system, its structure, functions, and processes.

Cephalization

An evolutionary development where more neurons are concentrated at one end of the body, forming the brain and enhancing central nervous system function.

Gyri

The ridges or folds on the surface of the brain.

Sulci

The grooves or indentations between gyri on the brain's surface.

Fissure

A deep groove that separates the two hemispheres of the brain.

White Matter

Brain tissue that is made up of myelinated axons, responsible for communication between different parts of the nervous system.

Gray Matter

Brain tissue consisting mostly of unmyelinated cell bodies (somas) of neurons.

Lateralization

The specialization of certain functions in each hemisphere of the brain.

Aphasias

Speech and language impairments resulting from damage to specific areas of the brain responsible for language.

Precentral Gyrus

The gyrus located in front of the central sulcus, containing the primary motor cortex.

Postcentral Gyrus

The gyrus located behind the central sulcus, containing the primary somatosensory cortex.

Basal Nuclei

A group of nuclei in the brain involved in coordinating movement and regulating muscular control.

Hypothalamus

A part of the diencephalon that regulates many autonomic functions, including hunger, thirst, and hormone release.

Thalamus

The brain's primary relay center for sensory information before it reaches the cortex.

Cerebellum

A region of the brain that coordinates voluntary muscle movements and maintains posture and balance.

Menings

The protective membranes that encase the central nervous system.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.

Reflex Arc

The neural pathway that mediates reflex actions involving sensory input, integration, and motor output.

Neuroplasticity

The ability of the brain to change and adapt as a result of experience and learning.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

The clear fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord that provides protection and maintains chemical stability.

Blood-Brain Barrier

A selective permeability barrier that protects the brain from pathogens and toxins in the bloodstream.

Hippocampus

A brain region associated with memory and learning.