Functions and Organization of the Nervous System

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the organization and functions of the nervous system, including anatomical structures, neural circuits, brain functions, and aspects of memory.

What are the three parts of the vertebrate nervous system?

Brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.

What is the function of afferent neurons?

Carry impulses from sensory receptor cells to the central nervous system.

What role do efferent neurons play in the nervous system?

Carry impulses from the central nervous system to muscles and glands.

What is the central nervous system composed of?

Brain and spinal cord.

Define neurohormones.

Hormones secreted by neurons into the interstitial fluid.

What does the thalamus do?

Communicates sensory information to the cerebral cortex.

What is the function of the hypothalamus?

Regulates homeostatic functions and controls the pituitary gland.

What are the major components of the brainstem?

Medulla, pons, and midbrain.

What is the primary function of the cerebellum?

Coordinates muscle activity and maintains balance.

What characterizes the frontal lobe?

Involved with problem-solving, memory, language cognition, and emotional expression.

What is the significance of the limbic system?

Involved in emotions, drives, instinctive behaviors, and memory.

What happens to a person with damage to Wernicke’s area?

They lose the ability to understand spoken or written language.

What type of sleep is characterized by high amplitude, slow frequency waves?

Slow wave sleep.

What is long-term potentiation (LTP)?

A long-lasting increase in the responsiveness of a neuron resulting from intense stimulation.

Describe the primary function of the angular gyrus.

Involved in integrating spoken and written language.

What can result from damage to Broca's area?

Halting or complete loss of speech, though comprehension may remain intact.

What is the main function of the parasympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system?

To slow heart rate and lower blood pressure.

What does contralateral neglect syndrome affect?

Affects awareness of stimuli from one side of the body or visual field.