Summary THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

,• The nervous system can be separated into parts based on structure and
function:
• Structurally, it can be divided into the central nervous system (CNS) and the pe
nervous system (PNS)
• Functionally, it can b e divided into somatic and visceral/autonomic parts.
• The CNS is composed of the brain and spinal cord.
• The PNS is composed of all nervous structures outside the CNS that con
the CNS to the body.
• Elements of this system develop from neural crest cells and as outgrow
the CNS.
• The PNS consists of the spinal and cranial nerves, visceral/autonomic n
and plexuses (plexus = network of nerves or vessels), and the enteric s
They monitor conditions inside and outside of the body and send this
information to the CNS.

,
,