BIO 202 Chapter 7 Lecture Notes

Human Biology Notes
BIO 202

Chapter 7: The Nervous System

Section 7.1: The Nervous System Is Categorized by Structure and Function
● Every conscious action that occurs in your body is governed by the nervous system (NS)
● Functions include:
○ Communication from one end of the body to another
○ Collection and integration of internal and external stimuli
○ Formulation of appropriate responses
● Most unconscious (or automatic) actions also are governed by the NS
● The immediacy of the NS response sets it apart from other control systems of the body
○ It is responsible for maintaining homeostasis
○ The NS works in concert with the endocrine system

The Nervous System Has Two Components
● Central Nervous System (CNS)
○ Composed of the brain and spinal cord
○ Encased by the axial skeleton and covered by meninges
○ Main integration system of the body
● Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
○ Composed of all the afferent and efferent neurons that extend from the CNS
● Both the CNS and PNS, information is carried by neurons and passed from one cell to
another using neurotransmitters