Nervous System

CHOOSE
 CNS neuroglia
1. Astrocytes :
 create supportive framework for neurons
 create “blood-brain barrier” and provide a means of acquiring
nutrients in the brain CNS neuroglia
2. Oligodendrocytes create myelin sheath around axons of neurons in
the CNS. Myelinated axons transmit impulses faster than
unmyelinated axons
3. Microglia: “brain macrophages”, phagocytize cellular wastes &
pathogens
4. Ependymal cells line ventricles of brain & central canal of spinal
cord found in the choroid plexus and produce, monitor & help
circulate CSF (cerebrospinal fluid).

 Schwann cells
 creates myelin sheath around most axons of PNS

 Satellite cells
 support (structurally & functionally) groups of cell bodies of neurons
within ganglia of the PNS

 Neuron: Structure
 The dendrites carries the impulse towards the nucleus.
 conduct impulses away from the cell body are axons Nissel body are
related with protein synthesis
 Reflex arc – neural pathway involved in the production of a reflex.
Structures include:
 receptor
 sensory neuron
 integrating center (brain or spinal cord)
 motor neuron
 effector

 Action potentials:
 APs involve the movement of Na+ ions into the cell (causing
depolarization of the membrane).

 Subarachnoid space – between arachnoid & pia mater; contains

cerebral spinal fluid (CSF).

 Ascending tracts - carry sensory information up the spinal cord to areas

of the brain.
 Descending tracts – carry motor information from the brain down to
specific levels of the spinal cord.

 Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) :

 Functions: in protection of CNS, support, nutrient supply, waste
removal.
 The Brainstem
 Medulla oblongata :
o cardiac, vasomotor, & respiratory reflex centers are present.
 Pons :
o respiratory centeris located in pons. The Brainstem
 Midbrain

 The Diencephalon
 functions:
o primarily as a sensory relay station The Diencephalon ( Pineal gland ).

 hunger/satiety, thirst, body temperature. Regulation

 hormone production (ADH, oxytocin)
 subconscious coordination of motor responses associated with rage,
pleasure, pain, sexual arousal.

 Limbic system:
 emotional states & behaviors
 long term memory

 The Cerebellum
 Functions:
 include control of skeletal muscles (unconscious) for balance,
coordination & posture.
  Effects of Sympathetic Activation -“fight or flight” response (energy
expenditure):

 increased cardiovascular & respiratory activity

 increased blood flow to brain (increased alertness), skeletal muscles,
heart muscle, lungs
 increased visual acuity (pupil dilation)
 release of energy reserves from adipose, liver, & skeletal muscles.

 Effects of Parasympathetic Activation -“rest & repose” response

(conserve & restore energy):

 decreased cardiovascular & respiratory activity

 increased GI motility & enzyme secretion
 pupil constriction
 nutrient uptake & energy storage into adipose, liver, & skeletal
muscles (glycogen).

WRITING
 The Nervous system has three major functions:
 Sensory – monitors internal & external environment through presence
of receptors
 Integration – interpretation of sensory information (information
processing); complex (higher order) functions
 Motor – response to information processed through stimulation of
effectors
 muscle contraction
 glandular secretion
  Two types of neural cells in the nervous system:
 Neurons - For processing, transfer, and storage of information
 Neuroglia – For support, regulation & protection of neurons.

 Reflex – a quick, unconscious response to a stimulus to protect or

maintain homeostasis. e.g. stretch reflex, withdrawal reflex.

 Meninges – Connective tissues that surround and protect the brain and
spinal cord (CNS).

Effects of Sympathetic Activation -“fight or flight” response (energy

expenditure):
 increased cardiovascular & respiratory activity
 increased blood flow to brain (increased alertness), skeletal muscles,
heart muscle, lungs.

Effects of Parasympathetic Activation -“rest & repose” response (conserve &

restore energy):
 decreased cardiovascular & respiratory activity
 increased GI motility & enzyme secretion