CNS vs PNS
What does CNS stand for?
What is Central Nervous System?
What is the primary function of neurons?
To receive, process, and transmit information throughout the body
Which part of the brain is responsible for higher cognitive functions?
The Prefrontal Cortex
What is the primary function of the spinal cord?
Act as a communication pathway between the brain and the rest of the body.
What role do cranial nerves IX and X play in swallowing?
CN IX provides sensory information from the back of the throat and taste from the back of the tongue, and elevates the pharynx during swallowing.
CN X provides sensory innervation to the pharynx and larynx, and constricts the pharyngeal and elevates the laryngeal.
Name one major function of the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
To relay information between CNS and the rest of the body
Define interneurons and their role in the nervous system.
Nerve cells within CNS that act as mediators between sensory and motor neurons
Identify the structure that regulates motor movements and muscle tone.
The cerebellum
How does the brainstem contribute to autonomic functions?
By acting as a central control center for involuntary bodily processes.
Describe the function of the medulla in the swallowing process.
Initiates and controls the muscle contractions needed to move food from the mouth to the stomach.
List two components of the central nervous system (CNS).
The brain and spinal cord
What are glial cells and why are they important?
Non-neuronal cells in the nervous system that provide support and protection to neurons
What is the function of the thalamus in communication?
Filtering and routing sensory information to the cerebral cortex for processing.
Describe the role of the limbic system in emotional regulation.
Processes and manages emotions, influences behaviors, and shapes our responses to stimuli
What is the role of the oral cavity during swallowing?
Receiving food, preparing it for swallowing, and initiating the swallowing process.
Explain the role of cranial nerves in the PNS.
They carry sensory and motor information
Describe the difference between motor and sensory neurons.
Sensory neurons transmit information from sensory receptors to CNS, while motor neurons transmit commands from CNS to muscles and glands
Describe the role of the cerebellum in motor control.
Important role in coordinating, fine-tuning, and learning motor skills
What is the function of the hypothalamus?
Maintains homeostasis by regulating various bodily functions.
Explain the difference between voluntary and involuntary phases of swallowing.
The oral phase is voluntary, allowing us to control the movement of food in the mouth and start the swallow.
The pharyngeal and esophageal phases are involuntary, automatically sending the food bolus through the throat and esophagus towards the stomach.
sDescribe the difference between the autonomic and somatic nervous system.
Somatic nervous system governs voluntary movement, which autonomic governs involuntary functions
Explain the significance of myelin sheaths in neuron function.
Enhances the speed and efficiency of nerve impulse transmission
Explain the significance of the corpus callosum in brain communication.
Facilitates the exchange of information, enabling coordinated functions across both sides of the brain
Explain the process of synaptic transmission.
How do sensory receptors contribute to the swallowing reflex?
Sensory receptors located throughout the oral cavity and throat play a crucial role in triggering and modulating the swallowing reflex.