Autonomic Nervous System and Brain Structures

These flashcards cover key terms related to the autonomic nervous system, brain structures, and components involved in male sexual function.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

Regulates involuntary functions in the body, including sexual response.

Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS)

Responsible for arousal phase of sexual activity; promotes relaxation and erection.

Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS)

Responsible for emission and ejaculation phases of sexual activity.

Erectile response

The physiological mechanisms that lead to an erection.

Cerebrum

The largest part of the brain responsible for movement, sensation, and emotions.

Cerebellum

Region of the brain that coordinates voluntary movement and balance.

Brainstem

Part of the brain responsible for basic life functions like breathing.

Corpus callosum

Bundle of nerve fibers connecting the two hemispheres of the brain.

Meninges

Three layers of connective tissue covering the brain and spinal cord.

Dura Mater

Outermost layer of the meninges, providing structural protection.

Arachnoid Mater

Middle layer of the meninges, web-like in structure.

Pia Mater

Innermost layer of the meninges, delicate and in contact with the brain.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

Fluid that cushions the brain and spinal cord.

Bulbourethral Gland (Cowper's)

Gland that secretes fluid to lubricate the urethra.

Cremaster Muscle

Muscle that raises and lowers the testes for temperature regulation.

Dartos Muscle

Smooth muscle in the scrotum that affects its temperature regulation.

Ductus Deferens

Tube that transports sperm to the urethra during ejaculation.

Epididymis

Coiled tube where sperm mature and are stored.

Prostate Gland

Gland that produces fluid contributing to semen.

Seminal Vesicles

Glands that secrete fluid for semen.

Testes

Organs that produce sperm and testosterone.

Urethra

Tube carrying urine and semen out of the body.

Midpiece of sperm

Part containing mitochondria providing energy for sperm motility.

Tail/Flagellum

Part of sperm that enables it to swim.

Corpus Spongiosum

Erectile tissue surrounding the urethra.

Corpora Cavernosa

Erectile tissues that engorge with blood during erection.

Brainstem

Controls vital functions such as heart rate and breathing.

Cerebral Cortex

Outer layer of the cerebrum involved in higher brain functions.

White Matter

Tissue in the brain made of myelinated axons.

Gray Matter

Region composed primarily of neuron cell bodies.

Choroid Plexus

Network that produces cerebrospinal fluid.

Hippocampus

Region involved in memory formation.

Amygdala

Processes emotions related to fear and pleasure.

Interthalamic Adhesion

Structure connecting the two thalami.

Medulla Oblongata

Regulates vital functions, part of the brainstem.

Folia

Folds in the cerebellum increasing surface area.

Vermis

Central part of the cerebellum involved in balance.

Arbor Vitae

Tree-like structure in the cerebellum made of white matter.

central sulcus

A groove in the brain that separates the frontal lobe from the parietal lobe

cerebral cortex

The outer layer of the cerebrum, involved in higher brain functions like perception, thought, and decision-making.