Anatomy of adult central nervous system: Structure and function of the brain and spinal cord

Abstract

The nervous system, which in conjunction with the endocrine system is the most important regulator of homeostasis, is composed mainly of specialized cells known as neurons and their supporting cells, the glia. The function of the neurons is to receive sensory input and to transmit this information to effector organs via a special transmissive system, the synapse. External and internal afferent sensory input is integrated within the nervous system, and efferent impulses are coordinated so that the effector organs work together for the well-being of the individual. The nervous system is divided into two main parts: the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord, which together are the primary regulators and integrators of nerve signals. Moreover, the central nervous system in humans has the ability to store sensory information received during past experiences (memory). In this chapter, the anatomical organization of the brain and spinal cord is summarized, together with a brief description of the function of the different regions.