anatomy 260 - nervous system review

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the nervous system.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Consists of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Includes all nerve structures outside the CNS.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

Divided into sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.

Neurons

Cells that gather and transmit information.

Dendrites

Extensions that conduct impulses to the cell body of a neuron.

Axon

The part of a neuron that conducts impulses away from the cell body.

Neuroglial Cells

Support cells that maintain homeostasis and form myelin.

White Matter

Tissue composed primarily of myelinated axons.

Gray Matter

Tissue composed primarily of cell bodies and unmyelinated fibers.

Reflex Arc

A neuronal pathway that mediates a reflex.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

Fluid that fills the hollow cavities of the brain and spinal cord.

Sensory Receptors

Structures that detect changes in the internal or external environment.

Mechanoreceptors

Sensory receptors that respond to mechanical forces.

Photoreceptors

Sensory receptors that respond to light.

Neuronal Circuit

A functional group of neurons that process specific types of information.

Dermatome

An area of skin innervated by cutaneous branches of a single spinal nerve.

Schwann Cells

Cells that form myelin sheaths around axons in the PNS.

Astrocytes

Star-shaped glial cells that support neurons and help regulate the blood-brain barrier.

Synapse

A junction where neuronal communication occurs.

Myelin Sheath

Insulating layer around axons that speeds neural transmission.

Somatic Nervous System

Part of the PNS that controls voluntary movements.