Nervous system

Definition

The nervous system is a complex network of cells and tissues that coordinates the actions and sensory information of an organism by transmitting signals between different parts of the body. This system plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis by regulating various physiological processes and enabling the organism to respond to changes in its environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The nervous system is divided into two main parts: the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), which encompasses all other neural elements.
2. Neurons communicate through electrical impulses and chemical signals, allowing rapid transmission of information across long distances within the body.
3. The autonomic nervous system, a component of the PNS, controls involuntary functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate, playing a key role in homeostasis.
4. Reflex arcs are a fundamental feature of the nervous system that allow for immediate responses to stimuli without involving conscious thought, ensuring quick reactions to potential threats.
5. Neuroplasticity is the ability of the nervous system to adapt and reorganize itself, which is important for learning, memory, and recovery from injury.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of neurons facilitate their function in the nervous system?
  • Neurons have a unique structure that supports their function in transmitting signals. They consist of three main parts: dendrites, which receive incoming signals; a cell body that processes information; and an axon that sends signals to other neurons or muscles. This specialized structure enables rapid communication within the nervous system, allowing organisms to react swiftly to environmental changes.
• Discuss the role of the autonomic nervous system in maintaining homeostasis within the body.
  • The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a vital role in maintaining homeostasis by regulating involuntary physiological processes. It consists of two branches: the sympathetic nervous system, which prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses during stress, and the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes 'rest and digest' functions. Together, these systems help balance bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion, ensuring internal stability.
• Evaluate how neuroplasticity impacts recovery from brain injuries and its significance for rehabilitation.
  • Neuroplasticity is crucial for recovery from brain injuries as it allows neurons to reorganize and form new connections. This adaptability can facilitate functional recovery by compensating for lost functions or skills due to injury. In rehabilitation settings, therapies can harness neuroplasticity through targeted exercises and cognitive training, promoting recovery by encouraging the brain to form new pathways. Understanding neuroplasticity's role highlights its significance in developing effective rehabilitation strategies for individuals with brain damage.

Related terms

neurons: Neurons are specialized cells that transmit nerve impulses, serving as the basic building blocks of the nervous system.

synapse: A synapse is the junction between two neurons where information is transmitted from one neuron to another through neurotransmitters.

homeostasis:

Homeostasis refers to the maintenance of stable internal conditions in an organism, which is largely regulated by the nervous system and endocrine system.