Anatomy of the Nervous System

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the anatomy of the nervous system, including structures, functions, and important terms.

Cerebrum

The largest part of the brain, responsible for higher brain functions such as thought and action.

Neural Tube

An embryonic structure that gives rise to the central nervous system.

Basal Nuclei

Group of nuclei in the brain involved in the coordination of movement.

Cranial Nerves

Twelve pairs of nerves that originate from the brain and brainstem, responsible for motor and sensory functions of the head and neck.

Spinal Cord

The main pathway for information connecting the brain and peripheral nervous system.

Meninges

Three protective membranes — dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater — that surround the brain and spinal cord.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Consists of the brain and spinal cord, responsible for processing and transmitting information.

White Matter

Brain and spinal cord tissue consisting of myelinated axons.

Grey Matter

Brain and spinal cord tissue consisting of neuron cell bodies and unmyelinated axons.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The part of the nervous system outside the CNS that connects the limbs and organs to the CNS.

Olfactory Nerve (CN I)

The cranial nerve responsible for the sense of smell.

Vagus Nerve (CN X)

The cranial nerve that controls autonomic functions and has a broad influence on body organs.

Musculocutaneous Nerve

A nerve in the brachial plexus that innervates muscles in the arm.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

A clear fluid that surrounds and nourishes the brain and spinal cord.

Thalamus

A structure in the brain that relays sensory information and acts as a gateway to the cerebral cortex.

Hippocampus

A brain structure involved in learning and memory.

Amygdala

A part of the limbic system involved in emotion regulation, especially fear.

Lateral Ventricles

Cavities within the cerebral hemispheres that contain cerebrospinal fluid.

Diencephalon

A division of the brain that includes the thalamus and hypothalamus.

Cerebellum

The part of the brain that coordinates voluntary movements and maintains posture.

Neural Crest

A group of cells that develop from the embryonic ectoderm and contribute to the nervous system.