Comprehensive Overview of CNS, PNS, and Autonomic Nervous System Functions

What does the Central Nervous System (CNS) consist of?

The brain and the spinal cord.

What is the primary function of the CNS?

To process information and control most functions of the body and mind.

What are afferent signals?

Signals entering the Central Nervous System (CNS).

What are efferent signals?

Signals exiting the Central Nervous System (CNS).

What does the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) consist of?

All the nerves that lie outside the brain and spinal cord.
autonomic and somatic nervous system

What are the two main parts of the PNS?

Somatic Nervous System and Autonomic Nervous System (ANS).

What does the Somatic Nervous System do?

Sends information about voluntary muscle movement and sensory information to the CNS.

What is the function of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)?

Regulates involuntary body functions, such as heartbeat, digestion, and breathing.

What is the role of the Sympathetic Nervous System?

Prepares the body for stressful or emergency situations, often referred to as 'fight or flight' responses.

Name some bodily effects of the Sympathetic Nervous System.

Increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, increased glucose utilization, and pupil dilation.

What does the Reticular Activating System do?

Helps set up the arousal state by signaling the body to bring important molecules like oxygen and nutrients around the body.

What is the function of the Parasympathetic Nervous System?

Conserves energy and helps the body return to a resting state, often referred to as 'rest and digest' responses.

What is the Default Mode Network?

A neural network that activates when the body is resting and during introspection and recalling memories.

What is the role of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex?

It relates to the amount of anxiety when performing a task.

What does the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex activate while resting?

Introspection, particularly when a person is daydreaming.

What areas of the brain help in recalling past events?

The posterior cingulate cortex, lateral parietal cortex, and precuneus.

What are Central Pattern Generators?

Neural networks that produce rhythmic outputs like walking and breathing without sensory feedback.

How are Central Pattern Generators signaled?

They are signaled by the ANS to alter activity.

What does the Enteric Nervous System control?

The functions of the gastrointestinal tract.