Pns and Cns
Pns and Cns
Pns and Cns
Nervous System
Introduction
The nervous system is a complex network responsible for coordinating and regulating the body's
responses to internal and external stimuli. It can be broadly classified into the central nervous
system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), each comprising specific divisions and sub-
divisions.
The CNS consists of the brain and the spinal cord. It serves as the control center for the entire
nervous system, processing information and initiating responses.
The PNS can be further categorized into the somatic nervous system, autonomic nervous system,
and the enteric nervous system.
This division is responsible for voluntary movement and the perception of external stimuli. It
comprises sensory (afferent) neurons that transmit sensory information to the CNS and motor
(efferent) neurons that convey motor signals from the CNS to the skeletal muscles.
The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary bodily functions and is divided into the
sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.
Sympathetic Nervous System: Initiates the "fight or flight" response, increasing heart rate,
dilating pupils, and releasing adrenaline in response to stress or danger.
Parasympathetic Nervous System: Promotes the "rest and digest" response, slowing heart rate,
constricting pupils, and stimulating digestion during periods of relaxation.
Neurons in Action
To illustrate the functionality of these divisions and sub-divisions, consider the following examples
involving neurons:
Central Nervous System (CNS): When a person decides to move their hand, the command
originates in the brain, where groups of neurons communicate, formulating the decision, and
then send signals down the spinal cord to the muscles in the hand.
Somatic Nervous System: When an individual touches a hot stove, sensory neurons in the skin
send signals to the spinal cord and brain, prompting a quick motor response to withdraw the
hand, facilitated by motor neurons.
Autonomic Nervous System: In response to a stressful situation, such as a near accident while
driving, the sympathetic nervous system activates specific neurons to increase heart rate and
dilate pupils in preparation for action. Conversely, after a meal, the parasympathetic nervous
system stimulates digestion through the activity of specialized neurons.
Enteric Nervous System: This system controls the peristalsis of the digestive system through
the coordinated activity of enteric neurons, aiding in the movement of food through the
digestive tract.
Understanding the role of neurons in the nervous system is essential for comprehending the
complexities of human physiology. Neurons are the fundamental units of the nervous system,
responsible for transmitting electrical and chemical signals, and their coordinated activity
underpins all functions of the nervous system. By understanding how neurons function within the
different divisions and sub-divisions of the nervous system, we gain insights into the intricate
mechanisms underlying sensory perception, movement, and autonomic regulation. This
knowledge is crucial for advancing medical treatments, developing interventions for neurological
disorders, and enhancing overall well-being.
Conclusion
The nervous system's divisions and sub-divisions, along with the intricate interactions of various
types of neurons, work synergistically to regulate and coordinate a wide range of bodily functions
and responses. Understanding these divisions and the role of neurons is crucial for comprehending
the complexities of human physiology and the intricate mechanisms underlying sensory
perception, movement, and autonomic regulation.