The Nervous System

The nervous system is a highly complex network of neural cells (neurons) and supportive (glial) cells responsible for internal coordination.

The fundamental functions of the nervous system fall under:

• Sensory functions: Gathers information from outside and within the body and relays it to the brain.

• Integrative functions: Information is received, processed, stored, and retrieved.

• Motor functions: Signals are sent from the brain to the muscles, organs, and glands where an effect is produced (for example, movement of a limb or secretion of gastric acid).

Figure 1: The Nervous System

The nervous system has two major anatomical subdivisions:

• Central Nervous System (CNS): Brain and Spinal cord

• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Nerves and ganglia