Nervous System & Spinal Cord - Easy Exam Notes
2. Organization of the Nervous System
1. Central Nervous System (CNS)
- Includes brain and spinal cord.
- Controls thinking, memory, movement, and reflexes.
2. Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
- Nerves outside the CNS.
- Divided into:
- Somatic (voluntary movements)
- Autonomic (involuntary actions: heartbeat, digestion)
- Sympathetic (fight or flight)
- Parasympathetic (rest and digest)
3. Neuron: Structure and Classification
- Structure: Dendrites (receive), Cell body (process), Axon (send).
- Types:
- Sensory neurons: body to brain
- Motor neurons: brain to muscles
- Interneurons: connect neurons inside CNS
4. Associated Cells (Glial Cells)
- Support and protect neurons.
- Astrocytes: support.
- Oligodendrocytes/Schwann: make myelin.
- Microglia: clean up damage.
5. Synapses and Post-Synaptic Potential
- Synapse: gap between neurons.
- Uses neurotransmitters to send signal.
- Post-synaptic potential: response of next neuron.
6. Neurotransmitters
- Chemicals that carry signals.
- Examples: Dopamine, Serotonin, Acetylcholine, GABA, Glutamate.
3. Basic Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
1. Spinal Meninges
- 3 layers:
- Dura mater (outer, strong)
- Arachnoid mater (middle, web-like)
- Pia mater (inner, delicate)
2. Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)
- Clear fluid that cushions the brain and spinal cord.
- Removes waste, delivers nutrients.
3. Processing Centers
- In spinal cord, handle some signals directly.
- Help with fast responses.
4. Sensory Pathways
- Ascending tracts from body to brain.
- Carry pain, touch, temperature info.
5. Reflex Arc
- Fast response without brain.
- Path: Receptor -> Sensory neuron -> Spinal cord -> Motor neuron -> Muscle.
- Example: Pulling hand from heat.