Biology Module 8

Gray Matter

Collections of neuron cell bodies and their associated neuroglia

White Matter

Bundles of parallel axons and their coverings

Cerebrospinal fluid

A liquid produced by ependymal cells in the ventricles of the brain

3 neurons in a reflex arc

Association neuron, efferent neuron, afferent neuron.

Arachnoid Granulations

These are tiny “sewers” that dump the CSF into the superior sagittal sinus. They drain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the subarachnoid space back into the blood circulation and therefore maintain healthy cranial pressure.

Association neuron

Located in the dorsal horn.

80%

The amount of CSF produced in the lateral ventricles

20%

The amount of CSF produced in the third and fourth ventricles

Diencephalon

Made up of the thalamus and the hypothalamus

Brainstem

Contains the midbrain, pons, and the medulla oblongata

Decussation

The anatomical crossing over of neurons from left to right

Vasomotor Area

Controls the dilation or constriction of blood vessels throughout the body

Pons

Forms a bridge between the medulla and the upper brain stem

Meninges

The 3 layers that protect the brain: dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater

Reticular Formation

These nuclei receive information from various afferent nerves, especially those in the face

Longitudinal Fissure

The line that divides the cerebrum into two halves

Temporal lobe

Involved in the senses of hearing and smell, as well as memory and thought

Frontal lobe

Involved in motor function and smell, as well as with mood, emotions, foresight, and memory

Occipital lobe

Receives and integrates visual sensory information

Parietal Lobe

Involved in receiving all touch sensory information

Central sulcus

Divides the frontal lobe from the parietal lobe