Neural Circuits

Neuronal pools

functional groups of CNS interneurons that stimulate/inhibit other regions of CNS

neural circuits

describe the pattern of information flow between neurons or pools

What are the five types of neural citcuits?

1. divergence

2. convergence

3. serial processing

4. parallel processing

5. reverberation

Divergence

mechanism for spreading stimulation to multiple neurons/neuronal pools in the CNS

Convergence

mechanism for providing input toa single neuron from multiple sources

Serial Processing

mechanism in which neurons or pools work sequentially

Parallel processing

mechanism in which neurons or pools process the same information simultaneously

Reverberation

a positive feedback mechanism

reflexes

rapid, automatic neural responses to a specific stimulus; preserves homeostasis; negative feedback

reflex arc

neural circuit for a single reflex; connects a receptor to an effector; includes sensory neuron, interneuron(optional), and motor neuron

What are the steps of a neural reflex?

1. stimulus activates a receptor

2. activation of sensory neuron (graded depolarization causes AP)

3. information processing by interneurons

4. activation of motor neurons (AP travels to periphery)

5. activation of peripheral effector