Nervous System

Definition

The nervous system is a complex network of cells and tissues that coordinates the body's responses to internal and external stimuli, allowing for communication between different body parts. It plays a crucial role in regulating bodily functions, processing sensory information, and controlling movements. This system is essential for maintaining homeostasis and enabling organisms to interact with their environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The nervous system is divided into two main parts: the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
2. Neurons communicate with each other through synapses, where neurotransmitters are released to transmit signals.
3. The autonomic nervous system, a subdivision of the PNS, controls involuntary functions like heart rate and digestion.
4. Neuroplasticity refers to the nervous system's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life.
5. The nervous system is vital for reflex actions, which are rapid responses to stimuli that occur without conscious thought.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of neurons support their function in the nervous system?
  • Neurons have a unique structure that supports their role in signal transmission. They consist of a cell body, dendrites, and an axon. Dendrites receive incoming signals from other neurons, while the axon transmits impulses away from the cell body to other neurons or muscles. This specialized structure allows for efficient communication within the nervous system, facilitating rapid responses to stimuli.
• Discuss the roles of the central and peripheral nervous systems in maintaining homeostasis.
  • The central nervous system (CNS) processes sensory information and coordinates responses, while the peripheral nervous system (PNS) relays information between the CNS and the rest of the body. Together, they work to maintain homeostasis by regulating physiological processes such as temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate. For example, when body temperature rises, the CNS receives this information and activates the PNS to initiate sweating, helping to cool down the body.
• Evaluate how neuroplasticity can impact recovery from neurological injuries and what this means for future therapies.
  • Neuroplasticity allows the nervous system to adapt and reorganize itself after injury by forming new neural connections. This capability is significant for recovery from conditions like strokes or traumatic brain injuries, as it can help patients regain lost functions or develop new skills. Understanding neuroplasticity informs future therapies aimed at rehabilitation, as strategies can be designed to enhance this natural healing process through targeted exercises or interventions that stimulate brain activity.

Related terms

Neurons: Specialized cells that transmit electrical signals throughout the nervous system, acting as the basic building blocks of neural communication.

Central Nervous System (CNS): The part of the nervous system that includes the brain and spinal cord, responsible for processing information and coordinating activities.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): The portion of the nervous system that lies outside the central nervous system, consisting of nerves that connect the CNS to limbs and organs.