Basic Structure and Functions of the Human Nervous System

These flashcards cover the basic structure and functions of the human nervous system, focusing on its regions, types of cells, and their roles.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The part of the nervous system that includes the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The part of the nervous system that includes all neural structures outside the CNS, such as peripheral nerves and ganglia.

Neuron

The functional cells of the nervous system that carry information.

Glial cells (glia)

Support cells in the nervous system that maintain its proper functioning.

Gray Matter

Regions of the nervous system composed mainly of cell bodies and dendrites, involved in information processing.

White Matter

Regions of the nervous system composed mainly of axons, involved in transmitting information.

Sensation

The process of receiving information about the environment from sensory receptors.

Stimulus

An event in the environment that is detected by the nervous system.

Somatic Nervous System (SNS)

The part of the nervous system responsible for voluntary motor responses and conscious perception.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

The part of the nervous system that controls involuntary functions to maintain homeostasis.

Neurons

Cells responsible for the computation and communication within the nervous system.

Axon

A long projection of a neuron that transmits signals to other cells.

Myelin

A fatty substance that insulates axons and speeds up signal transmission.

Astrocyte

Star-shaped glial cells that interact with neurons and blood vessels, maintaining ion concentrations.

Oligodendrocytes

Glial cells that create the myelin sheath around axons in the CNS.

Schwann Cells

Glial cells that form the myelin sheath around axons in the PNS.