Nervous System
Nervous System
The Nervous System (pronunciation: /ˈnɜːrvəs ˈsɪstəm/) is a complex network of nerves and cells that transmit signals between different parts of the body. It is essentially the body's electrical wiring and is fundamental to everything the body does.
Etymology
The term "nervous" comes from the Latin word "nervus" meaning "sinew, nerve" and the term "system" comes from the Latin word "systema" meaning "an organized whole, a set of correlated principles, facts, ideas".
Structure
The Nervous System is divided into two main parts: the Central Nervous System (CNS) and the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS). The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS consists of all the other neural elements, including the peripheral nerves and the autonomic nerves.
Function
The primary function of the Nervous System is to coordinate and regulate the body's responses to internal and external stimuli. It does this by transmitting signals between different parts of the body, allowing for communication between them.
Related Terms
- Neuron: The basic working unit of the Nervous System, a specialized cell designed to transmit information to other nerve cells, muscle, or gland cells.
- Neurotransmitter: Chemicals used by nerve cells to send signals to other cells.
- Synapse: The junction between two nerve cells, consisting of a minute gap across which impulses pass by diffusion of a neurotransmitter.
- Glia: Non-neuronal cells that maintain homeostasis, form myelin, and provide support and protection for neurons in the brain and peripheral nervous system.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Nervous System
- Wikipedia's article - Nervous System
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