Structure and Function of the Nervous System
Learning Objectives
1. Be able to recognize the key features of a neuron (dendrites, cell body, axon, and axon terminal forming a synapse) and know the role that each part plays in neuronal function. Know that oligodendrocytes produce myelin in the central nervous system and that Schwann cells produce myelin in the peripheral nervous system. Be able to identify myelin and nodes of Ranvier.
2. Understand that the central nervous system (CNS) develops from a tube, and that the hollow space of that tube becomes the brain ventricles and central canal of the spinal cord. Know that the CNS is surrounded by the meninges, and be able to identify the dura mater and subarachnoid space. Know that the ventricles and subarachnoid space are filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Be able to describe the blood-brain barrier and the relationship between CSF, interstitial fluid, and blood plasma.
3. Know that in the CNS, neuronal cell bodies are found in gray matter and axons are found in white matter. Be able to identify the structures and regions of the brain discussed in lecture.
4. Be able to describe how a lesion in a specific location of the visual pathways affects vision. Be able to identify the different brain regions associated with motor control. Know the anatomy of the upper motor neurons and how damage to particular parts of the upper motor neurons affect motor behavior. Be able to describe the key symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and know that the disease results from the degeneration of dopamine-releasing neurons in the substantial nigra.
5. Know the anatomy of the spinal cord tissue. Be able to identify dorsal and ventral roots, dorsal root ganglia, and spinal nerves.
6. Know the direction that information flows for the afferent and efferent divisions of the peripheral nervous system. Be able to describe the anatomy and the cell types for the afferent, the somatic efferent, and autonomic efferent divisions.
7. Be able to describe the basic differences between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system, knowing in particular the neurotransmitters that are released by postganglionic neurons at targets.