Brain Structure and Function (Part 1)

Flashcards reviewing brain structure and function, covering divisions of the nervous system, peripheral and central nervous systems, spinal cord anatomy, and referencing locations within the nervous system.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The division of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

All parts of the nervous system outside of the brain and spinal cord.

Somatic System

Links the spinal cord with the body and sense organs; controls voluntary behavior.

Autonomic System

Serves internal organs and glands; controls automatic/involuntary functions such as heart rate and blood pressure.

Sympathetic Nervous System

The 'fight or flight' division of the autonomic system, which arouses the body, stimulates, organizes, and mobilizes energy resources.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

The 'rest & digest' division of the autonomic system, which relaxes the body and conserves energy.

Acetylcholine (Sympathetic Response)

A neurotransmitter released within the autonomic nervous system to initiate the sympathetic response.

Epinephrine (Adrenalin)

A hormone released by the adrenal medulla that increases glucose metabolism and provides energy to muscles.

Norepinephrine (Noradrenalin)

A hormone released by the adrenal medulla that increases heart rate and blood pressure.

Somatic Nervous System Function

Responsible for carrying sensory information and motor responses both to and from the CNS; involved in voluntary movements and reflexes.

Afferent Nerve Fibers

Transmit sensory signals to the PNS (sensory neurons).

Efferent Nerve Fibers

Carry signals from the ventral horn to the effectors (muscles).

Spinal Cord Functions

Conduit for motor information, conduit for sensory information, and a center for coordinating certain reflexes.

Dorsal Horn

A site in the spinal cord where afferent (both somatic & autonomic) nerve fibers synapse.

Ventral Horn

A site in the spinal cord where efferent nerve fibers synapse.

Lateral (Referencing Location)

Towards the side, away from the middle.

Medial (Referencing Location)

Towards the middle, away from the side.

Ipsilateral

On the same side.

Contralateral

On the opposite side.

Anterior/Rostral

In front of; toward the face; toward the front of the brain, but the top of the spinal cord.

Posterior/Caudal

Behind; toward the back; toward the back of the brain, but the bottom of the spinal cord.

Superior/Dorsal

Above; toward the top of the head; toward the top of the brain, but the back of the spinal cord.

Inferior/Ventral

Below; toward the feet; toward the bottom of the brain, but the front of the spinal cord.