Interaction and Interdependence of Body Systems

Flashcards for reviewing lecture notes on Body Systems

Tissues

Groups of identical cells that associate to form perform specific functions.

Organs

Different tissues combine to form these.

Systems

Interacting organs form these.

Organism

A complete life form.

System Integration

Coordination between different organ systems is needed to allow multicellular organisms to collectively perform the functions of life and meet the requirements for ongoing survival

Examples of Systems that are needed for System Integration

Vascular, Respiratory, Digestive, Excretory, Nervous, Endocrine, Skeletal, Muscular

Nervous System

A communication system consisting of a network of nerve cells (neurons) that transmit electrochemical impulses.

Endocrine System

A communication system consisting of ductless endocrine glands that release chemical messengers (hormones) directly into the bloodstream.

Nervous System Signals

Electrical impulses sent via nerves (neurons).

Endocrine System Signals

Chemical messengers sent via the bloodstream.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The part of the nervous system composed of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The part of the nervous system that links the CNS to receptors and effectors.

Receptors

Convert stimuli into electrical impulses.

Effectors

Convert electrical impulses into a suitable response.

Sensory Neurons

Relay signals to the CNS.

Motor Neurons

Relay signals from the CNS.

Autonomic Nervous System

Controls involuntary responses.

Somatic Nervous System

Controls voluntary responses.

Parasympathetic Division

‘Rest and digest’ responses.

Sympathetic Division

‘Fight or flight’ responses.

Photoreceptors

Detect light energy.

Thermoreceptors

Detect changes in body temperature.

Chemoreceptors

Detect chemicals (smell, taste, blood).

Mechanoreceptors

Detect touch, pressure, and stretch.

Effector

Any organ or cell that acts in response to a stimulus.

Reflex

Rapid and involuntary response to stimuli.

Endocrine System

Consists of a network of ductless glands that release chemicals called hormones directly into the bloodstream.

Hypothalamus

Connects the nervous and endocrine systems and functions as a homeostasis control center.

Pituitary Gland

Controls the release of hormones from other endocrine glands in the body.

Pancreas

Insulin and glucagon (blood glucose).

Adrenal Gland

Adrenaline (‘fight or flight’).

Thyroid Gland

Thyroxin (raises body heat).

Pineal Gland

Melatonin (circadian rhythms).

Gonads

Sex hormones (testosterone / estrogen).