Nervous System
Each list begins with basic conceptual vocabulary you need to know for MCAT questions and proceeds to advanced terms that might appear in context in MCAT passages. The terms are links to Wikipedia articles.
Neuron
Neurons are electrically excitable cells in the nervous system that process and transmit information.
Neurons are electrically excitable cells in the nervous system that process and transmit information.
Central nervous system
The central nervous system represents the largest part of the nervous system, including the brain and the spinal cord.
The central nervous system represents the largest part of the nervous system, including the brain and the spinal cord.
Nervous tissue
Nervous tissue is composed of neurons, which transmit impulses, and the neuroglia, which assist propagation of the nerve impulse as well as provide nutrients to the neuron.
Nervous tissue is composed of neurons, which transmit impulses, and the neuroglia, which assist propagation of the nerve impulse as well as provide nutrients to the neuron.
Action potential
An action potential is a spike of electrical discharge that travels along the membrane of a cell.
An action potential is a spike of electrical discharge that travels along the membrane of a cell.
Resting potential
The resting potential of a cell is the membrane potential that would be maintained if there were no action potentials, synaptic potentials, or other active changes in the membrane potential.
The resting potential of a cell is the membrane potential that would be maintained if there were no action potentials, synaptic potentials, or other active changes in the membrane potential.
Membrane potential
Membrane potential is the electrical voltage across a cell's plasma membrane.
Membrane potential is the electrical voltage across a cell's plasma membrane.
Depolarization
Depolarization is a decrease in the absolute value of a cell's membrane potential.
Depolarization is a decrease in the absolute value of a cell's membrane potential.
Brain
The brain or encephalon is the control center of the central nervous system.
The brain or encephalon is the control center of the central nervous system.
Cerebrum
The telencephalon is the name for the forebrain, a large region within the brain to which many functions are attributed, which many people refer to as the cerebrum.
The telencephalon is the name for the forebrain, a large region within the brain to which many functions are attributed, which many people refer to as the cerebrum.
Peripheral nervous system
The peripheral nervous system resides or extends outside the central nervous system serving the limbs and organs.
The peripheral nervous system resides or extends outside the central nervous system serving the limbs and organs.
Somatic nervous system
The somatic nervous system is the part of the peripheral nervous system associated with the voluntary control of body movements and with reception of external stimuli.
The somatic nervous system is the part of the peripheral nervous system associated with the voluntary control of body movements and with reception of external stimuli.
Autonomic nervous system
The autonomic nervous system is the part of the peripheral nervous system that acts as a control system, maintaining homeostasis in the body.
The autonomic nervous system is the part of the peripheral nervous system that acts as a control system, maintaining homeostasis in the body.
Motor neuron
Motor neurons begin in the central nervous system projecting their axons outside the CNS and directly or indirectly controlling muscles.
Motor neurons begin in the central nervous system projecting their axons outside the CNS and directly or indirectly controlling muscles.
Spinal cord
The spinal cord is a thin, tubular bundle of nerves that is an extension of the central nervous system from the brain, enclosed and protected by the bony vertebral column.
The spinal cord is a thin, tubular bundle of nerves that is an extension of the central nervous system from the brain, enclosed and protected by the bony vertebral column.
Sympathetic nervous system
The sympathetic nervous system is a branch of the autonomic nervous system, always active at a basal level and becoming more active during times of stress.
The sympathetic nervous system is a branch of the autonomic nervous system, always active at a basal level and becoming more active during times of stress.
Parasympathetic nervous system
In a kind of complementary opposition to the sympathetic nervous system, the parasympathetic nervous system is the division of the autonomic nervous system that functions with actions that do not correspond to stress.
In a kind of complementary opposition to the sympathetic nervous system, the parasympathetic nervous system is the division of the autonomic nervous system that functions with actions that do not correspond to stress.
Dendrite
Dendrites are the branched projections of a neuron that act to conduct the electrical stimulation received from other neural cells to the cell body of the neuron.
Dendrites are the branched projections of a neuron that act to conduct the electrical stimulation received from other neural cells to the cell body of the neuron.
Potassium channel
Potassium channels are the most common type of ion channel within the physiology.
Potassium channels are the most common type of ion channel within the physiology.
Sodium channel
Sodium channels are integral membrane proteins that conduct sodium ions through a cell's plasma membrane.
Sodium channels are integral membrane proteins that conduct sodium ions through a cell's plasma membrane.
Positive feedback
Positive feedback is a feedback system in which the system responds to the perturbation with activity in the same direction as the perturbation.
Positive feedback is a feedback system in which the system responds to the perturbation with activity in the same direction as the perturbation.
Myelin
Myelin is an electrically insulating phospholipid layer that surrounds the axons of many neurons.
Myelin is an electrically insulating phospholipid layer that surrounds the axons of many neurons.
Nodes of Ranvier
Nodes of Ranvier, also known as neurofibril nodes, are regularly spaced gaps in the myelin sheath around an axon or nerve fiber.
Nodes of Ranvier, also known as neurofibril nodes, are regularly spaced gaps in the myelin sheath around an axon or nerve fiber.
Chemical synapse
Chemical synapses are specialized junctions through which the cells of the nervous system employ neurotransmitters to signal to each other and to non-neuronal cells such as those in muscles or glands.
Chemical synapses are specialized junctions through which the cells of the nervous system employ neurotransmitters to signal to each other and to non-neuronal cells such as those in muscles or glands.
Neurotransmitter
Neurotransmitters are chemicals that are used to relay, amplify and modulate signals between a neuron and another cell.
Neurotransmitters are chemicals that are used to relay, amplify and modulate signals between a neuron and another cell.
Grey matter
Grey matter is a major component of the central nervous system, consisting of nerve cell bodies, glial cells, capillaries, and short axons and dendrites.
Grey matter is a major component of the central nervous system, consisting of nerve cell bodies, glial cells, capillaries, and short axons and dendrites.
White matter
White matter is composed of myelinated nerve cell processes, or axons, which connect various gray matter areas of the brain to each other.
White matter is composed of myelinated nerve cell processes, or axons, which connect various gray matter areas of the brain to each other.
Neural network
A neural network refers to a network or circuitry of biological neurons.
A neural network refers to a network or circuitry of biological neurons.
Reflex
A reflex action is an automatic (involuntary) neuromuscular action elicited by a defined stimulus.
A reflex action is an automatic (involuntary) neuromuscular action elicited by a defined stimulus.
Sensory neuron
Sensory neurons are nerve cells within the nervous system responsible for converting external stimuli from the organism's environment into nerve impulses relayed to the central nervous system.
Sensory neurons are nerve cells within the nervous system responsible for converting external stimuli from the organism's environment into nerve impulses relayed to the central nervous system.
Fight-or-flight response
The fight-or-flight response states that animals react to threats with a general discharge of the sympathetic nervous system.
The fight-or-flight response states that animals react to threats with a general discharge of the sympathetic nervous system.
Soma
The soma, or perikaryon, is the bulbous end of a neuron, containing the cell nucleus.
The soma, or perikaryon, is the bulbous end of a neuron, containing the cell nucleus.
Afferent nerve
Afferent neurons--otherwise known as sensory or receptor neurons--carry nerve impulses from receptors or sense organs toward the central nervous system.
Afferent neurons--otherwise known as sensory or receptor neurons--carry nerve impulses from receptors or sense organs toward the central nervous system.
Efferent nerve
Efferent nerves - otherwise known as motor or effector neurons - carry nerve impulses away from the central nervous system to effectors such as muscles or glands.
Efferent nerves - otherwise known as motor or effector neurons - carry nerve impulses away from the central nervous system to effectors such as muscles or glands.
Glial cell
Glial cells, commonly called neuroglia, are non-neuronal cells that provide support and nutrition, maintain homeostasis, form myelin, and participate in signal transmission in the nervous system.
Glial cells, commonly called neuroglia, are non-neuronal cells that provide support and nutrition, maintain homeostasis, form myelin, and participate in signal transmission in the nervous system.
Schwann cell
Schwann cells are a variety of glial cell that mainly provide myelin insulation to axons in the peripheral nervous system.
Schwann cells are a variety of glial cell that mainly provide myelin insulation to axons in the peripheral nervous system.
Reversal potential
In a biological membrane, the reversal potential (or Nernst potential) of a particular ion is the membrane voltage at which there is no net flow of ions from one side of the membrane to the other.
In a biological membrane, the reversal potential (or Nernst potential) of a particular ion is the membrane voltage at which there is no net flow of ions from one side of the membrane to the other.
Saltatory conduction
Saltatory conduction is the means by which action potentials are transmitted along myelinated nerve fibers.
Saltatory conduction is the means by which action potentials are transmitted along myelinated nerve fibers.
Neuromuscular junction
A neuromuscular junction is the synapse or junction of the axon terminal of a motoneuron with the motor end plate.
A neuromuscular junction is the synapse or junction of the axon terminal of a motoneuron with the motor end plate.
Acetylcholine
The first neurotransmitter identified, the chemical compound acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter in both the peripheral nervous system and central nervous system.
The first neurotransmitter identified, the chemical compound acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter in both the peripheral nervous system and central nervous system.
Norepinephrine
Epinephrine and norepinephrine are fight or flight hormones released from the adrenal glands, which are also neurotransmitters in the central and sympathetic nervous systems.
Epinephrine and norepinephrine are fight or flight hormones released from the adrenal glands, which are also neurotransmitters in the central and sympathetic nervous systems.
Cranial nerves
Cranial nerves are nerves that emerge directly from the brain in contrast to spinal nerves which emerge from segments of the spinal cord.
Cranial nerves are nerves that emerge directly from the brain in contrast to spinal nerves which emerge from segments of the spinal cord.
Reflex arc
A reflex arc is the neural pathway that mediates a reflex action.
A reflex arc is the neural pathway that mediates a reflex action.
Limbic system
The limbic system is the part of the human brain involved in emotion, motivation, and emotional association with memory.
The limbic system is the part of the human brain involved in emotion, motivation, and emotional association with memory.
Parasympathetic ganglion
Parasympathetic ganglia are mostly small terminal ganglia or intramural ganglia lying near or within the organs they innervate.
Parasympathetic ganglia are mostly small terminal ganglia or intramural ganglia lying near or within the organs they innervate.
Axon hillock
The axon hillock is the anatomical part of a neuron that connects the cell body called soma to the axon.
The axon hillock is the anatomical part of a neuron that connects the cell body called soma to the axon.
Neuron doctrine
The neuron doctrine is the now fundamental idea that neurons are the basic structural and functional units of the nervous system.
The neuron doctrine is the now fundamental idea that neurons are the basic structural and functional units of the nervous system.
Hyperpolarization
Hyperpolarization is any change in a cell's membrane potential that makes it more polarized.
Hyperpolarization is any change in a cell's membrane potential that makes it more polarized.
Synaptic vesicle
Synaptic vesicles store the various neurotransmitters that are released during calcium-regulated exocytosis into the synaptic cleft of a synapse.
Synaptic vesicles store the various neurotransmitters that are released during calcium-regulated exocytosis into the synaptic cleft of a synapse.
Acetylcholine receptor
An acetylcholine receptor is an integral membrane protein that responds to the binding of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
An acetylcholine receptor is an integral membrane protein that responds to the binding of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
Neuropeptide
A neuropeptide is any of the variety of peptides found in neural tissue. Examples include the endorphins and enkephalins.
A neuropeptide is any of the variety of peptides found in neural tissue. Examples include the endorphins and enkephalins.
Reuptake
Reuptake is the reabsorption of a neurotransmitter by the neurotransmitter transporter of a pre-synaptic neuron after it has performed its function of transmitting a neural impulse.
Reuptake is the reabsorption of a neurotransmitter by the neurotransmitter transporter of a pre-synaptic neuron after it has performed its function of transmitting a neural impulse.
Cerebrospinal fluid
Cerebrospinal fluid is a clear bodily fluid that occupies the subarachnoid space and the ventricular system around and inside the brain.
Cerebrospinal fluid is a clear bodily fluid that occupies the subarachnoid space and the ventricular system around and inside the brain.
Hypothalamus
Located just below the thalamus, the hypothalamus links the nervous system to the endocrine system via the pituitary gland.
Located just below the thalamus, the hypothalamus links the nervous system to the endocrine system via the pituitary gland.
Preganglionic fibers
In the autonomic nervous system, fibers from the CNS to the ganglion are known as preganglionic fibers.
In the autonomic nervous system, fibers from the CNS to the ganglion are known as preganglionic fibers.
Cholinergic
A synapse is cholinergic if it uses acetylcholine as its neurotransmitter.
A synapse is cholinergic if it uses acetylcholine as its neurotransmitter.
Enteric nervous system
The enteric nervous system is the part of the nervous system that directly controls the gastrointestinal system.
The enteric nervous system is the part of the nervous system that directly controls the gastrointestinal system.
Meninges
The meninges is the system of membranes which envelope the central nervous system.
The meninges is the system of membranes which envelope the central nervous system.
Astrocyte
Astrocytes are characteristic star-shaped glial cells in the brain.
Astrocytes are characteristic star-shaped glial cells in the brain.
Oligodendrocyte
Oligodendrocytes are a variety of neuroglia whose main function is the myelination of axons exclusively in the central nervous system of the higher vertebrates.
Oligodendrocytes are a variety of neuroglia whose main function is the myelination of axons exclusively in the central nervous system of the higher vertebrates.
Electrophysiology
Electrophysiology is the study of the electrical properties of biological cells and tissues.
Electrophysiology is the study of the electrical properties of biological cells and tissues.
Choline acetyltransferase
Choline acetyltransferase is an enzyme which joins Acetyl CoA to choline, resulting in the formation of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
Choline acetyltransferase is an enzyme which joins Acetyl CoA to choline, resulting in the formation of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
Catecholamine
Catecholamines are chemical compounds derived from the amino acid tyrosine containing catechol and amine groups.
Catecholamines are chemical compounds derived from the amino acid tyrosine containing catechol and amine groups.
Dopamine
Dopamine is a phenethylamine hormone and neurotransmitter. As a hormone, it inhibits the release of prolactin from the anterior lobe of the pituitary. As a neurotransmitter in the brain, it activates five types of receptors and their variants.
Dopamine is a phenethylamine hormone and neurotransmitter. As a hormone, it inhibits the release of prolactin from the anterior lobe of the pituitary. As a neurotransmitter in the brain, it activates five types of receptors and their variants.
Serotonin
Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter synthesized in serotonergic neurons in the central nervous system and enterochromaffin cells in the gastrointestinal tract.
Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter synthesized in serotonergic neurons in the central nervous system and enterochromaffin cells in the gastrointestinal tract.
GABA
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (usually abbreviated to GABA) is the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and also in the retina.
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (usually abbreviated to GABA) is the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and also in the retina.
Synaptic plasticity
Synaptic plasticity is the ability of the connection, or synapse, between two neurons to change in strength.
Synaptic plasticity is the ability of the connection, or synapse, between two neurons to change in strength.
G-protein-coupled receptor
G-protein-coupled receptors are a large protein family of transmembrane receptors that sense molecules outside the cell and activate inside signal transduction pathways and, ultimately, cellular responses.
G-protein-coupled receptors are a large protein family of transmembrane receptors that sense molecules outside the cell and activate inside signal transduction pathways and, ultimately, cellular responses.
Medulla oblongata
The medulla oblongata is the lower portion of the brainstem.
The medulla oblongata is the lower portion of the brainstem.
Ventricular system
The ventricular system is a set of structures in the brain continuous with the central canal of the spinal cord through which cerebrospinal fluid flows.
The ventricular system is a set of structures in the brain continuous with the central canal of the spinal cord through which cerebrospinal fluid flows.
Cerebellum
The cerebellum is a region of the brain that plays an important role in the integration of sensory perception and motor control, using constant feedback on body position to fine-tune motor movements.
The cerebellum is a region of the brain that plays an important role in the integration of sensory perception and motor control, using constant feedback on body position to fine-tune motor movements.
Pineal gland
The pineal gland is a small endocrine gland in the brain which produces melatonin.
The pineal gland is a small endocrine gland in the brain which produces melatonin.
Broca's area
Broca's area is a section of the human brain that is involved in language processing, speech production, and comprehension.
Broca's area is a section of the human brain that is involved in language processing, speech production, and comprehension.
Ganglion
A ganglion is a tissue mass composed mainly of somata and dendritic structures. They are often interconnected with each other to form a complex known as a plexus.
A ganglion is a tissue mass composed mainly of somata and dendritic structures. They are often interconnected with each other to form a complex known as a plexus.
Dorsal root ganglion
The dorsal root ganglion is a nodule on a dorsal root that contains cell bodies of neurons in afferent spinal nerves.
The dorsal root ganglion is a nodule on a dorsal root that contains cell bodies of neurons in afferent spinal nerves.
Optic nerve
The optic nerve, also called cranial nerve II, is the nerve that transmits visual information from the retina to the brain.
The optic nerve, also called cranial nerve II, is the nerve that transmits visual information from the retina to the brain.
Spinal nerve
The term spinal nerve generally refers to one of 31 paired mixed nerves formed from dorsal and ventral roots and exiting from the vertebrae through the intervertebral foramen.
The term spinal nerve generally refers to one of 31 paired mixed nerves formed from dorsal and ventral roots and exiting from the vertebrae through the intervertebral foramen.
Tryptamine
Tryptamine is a monoamine alkaloid chemically related to the amino acid tryptophan, found in trace amounts in the brain and believed to play a role as a neuromodulator or neurotransmitter.
Tryptamine is a monoamine alkaloid chemically related to the amino acid tryptophan, found in trace amounts in the brain and believed to play a role as a neuromodulator or neurotransmitter.
Neurophysin II
Neurophysin II is a carrier protein which binds vasopressin.
Neurophysin II is a carrier protein which binds vasopressin.
Epithalamus
The epithalamus is a dorsal posterior segment of the diencephalon which includes the habenula, the stria medullaris and the pineal body.
The epithalamus is a dorsal posterior segment of the diencephalon which includes the habenula, the stria medullaris and the pineal body.
Corpus callosum
The corpus callosum is a structure of the brain in the longitudinal fissure that connects the left and right cerebral hemispheres. It is the largest white matter structure in the brain.
The corpus callosum is a structure of the brain in the longitudinal fissure that connects the left and right cerebral hemispheres. It is the largest white matter structure in the brain.
Dura mater
The dura mater, or pachymeninx, is the tough and inflexible outermost of the three layers of the meninges surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
The dura mater, or pachymeninx, is the tough and inflexible outermost of the three layers of the meninges surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
Axoplasm
Axoplasm is the cytoplasm within the axon of a neuron.
Axoplasm is the cytoplasm within the axon of a neuron.
Axolemma
The axolemma is the membrane of a neuron's axon.
The axolemma is the membrane of a neuron's axon.
Neurofilament
Neurofilaments are the intermediate filaments found specifically in neurons.
Neurofilaments are the intermediate filaments found specifically in neurons.
Multipolar neuron
A multipolar neuron is a type of neuron that possesses a single axon and many dendrites.
A multipolar neuron is a type of neuron that possesses a single axon and many dendrites.
Axon guidance
Axon guidance (also called axon pathfinding) describes the means by which neurons send out axons to reach the correct targets.
Axon guidance (also called axon pathfinding) describes the means by which neurons send out axons to reach the correct targets.
Radial glia
Radial glial cells, also called Bergmann glia, are a pivotal cell type in the developing central nervous system involved in key developmental processes.
Radial glial cells, also called Bergmann glia, are a pivotal cell type in the developing central nervous system involved in key developmental processes.
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are ionotropic receptors that form ligand gated ion channels in cells' plasma membranes whose opening is triggered both by the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and also nicotine.
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are ionotropic receptors that form ligand gated ion channels in cells' plasma membranes whose opening is triggered both by the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and also nicotine.
Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor
Muscarinic receptors are those membrane-bound acetylcholine receptors that are more sensitive to muscarine than to nicotine.
Muscarinic receptors are those membrane-bound acetylcholine receptors that are more sensitive to muscarine than to nicotine.
Axoplasmic transport
Axoplasmic transport, also called axonal transport, is responsible for movement of mitochondria, lipids, synaptic vesicles, proteins, and other cell parts to and from a neuron's cell body through the cytoplasm of its axon.
Axoplasmic transport, also called axonal transport, is responsible for movement of mitochondria, lipids, synaptic vesicles, proteins, and other cell parts to and from a neuron's cell body through the cytoplasm of its axon.
Monoamine neurotransmitter
Monoamine neurotransmitters, such as the catacholamines or melatonin, are neurotransmitters and neuromodulators that contain one amino group that is connected to an aromatic ring by a two-carbon chain.
Monoamine neurotransmitters, such as the catacholamines or melatonin, are neurotransmitters and neuromodulators that contain one amino group that is connected to an aromatic ring by a two-carbon chain.
NAAG
N-Acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG) is the third most prevalent neurotransmitter in the nervous system.
N-Acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG) is the third most prevalent neurotransmitter in the nervous system.
Metabotropic receptor
Metabotropic receptors do not form an ion channel pore; rather, they are indirectly linked with ion-channels on the plasma membrane of the cell through signal transduction mechanisms.
Metabotropic receptors do not form an ion channel pore; rather, they are indirectly linked with ion-channels on the plasma membrane of the cell through signal transduction mechanisms.
Rhombencephalon
The rhombencephalon is a developmental categorization of portions of the central nervous system in vertebrates, sometimes called the hindbrain.
The rhombencephalon is a developmental categorization of portions of the central nervous system in vertebrates, sometimes called the hindbrain.
Pons
The pons is a structure located on the brain stem rostral to the medulla oblongata, caudal to the midbrain, and ventral to the cerebellum.
The pons is a structure located on the brain stem rostral to the medulla oblongata, caudal to the midbrain, and ventral to the cerebellum.
Mesencephalon
The mesencephalon, or midbrain, is the middle of three vesicles that arise from the neural tube that forms the brain of developing animals.
The mesencephalon, or midbrain, is the middle of three vesicles that arise from the neural tube that forms the brain of developing animals.
Prosencephalon
The prosencephalon (or forebrain) is the rostral-most portion of the brain.
The prosencephalon (or forebrain) is the rostral-most portion of the brain.
Diencephalon
The diencephalon is the region of the brain that includes the thalamus, hypothalamus, epithalamus, prethalamus or subthalamus and pretectum. It is derived from the prosencephalon.
The diencephalon is the region of the brain that includes the thalamus, hypothalamus, epithalamus, prethalamus or subthalamus and pretectum. It is derived from the prosencephalon.
Thalamus
The thalamus is a pair and symmetric part of the brain constituting the main part of the diencephalon.
The thalamus is a pair and symmetric part of the brain constituting the main part of the diencephalon.
Suprachiasmatic nucleus
The suprachiasmatic nucleus is a region of the brain, located in the hypothalamus, that is responsible for controlling endogenous circadian rhythms.
The suprachiasmatic nucleus is a region of the brain, located in the hypothalamus, that is responsible for controlling endogenous circadian rhythms.
Olfactory bulb
The olfactory bulb is a structure of the vertebrate forebrain involved in olfaction, the perception of odors.
The olfactory bulb is a structure of the vertebrate forebrain involved in olfaction, the perception of odors.
Brodmann area
A Brodmann area is a region in the brain cortex defined based on its cytoarchitecture, which is the organization of the cortex as observed when a tissue is stained for nerve cells.
A Brodmann area is a region in the brain cortex defined based on its cytoarchitecture, which is the organization of the cortex as observed when a tissue is stained for nerve cells.
Primary auditory cortex
The primary auditory cortex is the region of the brain that is responsible for processing of auditory information.
The primary auditory cortex is the region of the brain that is responsible for processing of auditory information.
Parietal lobe
The parietal lobe is a lobe in the brain positioned above the occipital lobe and behind the frontal lobe which integrates sensory information from different modalities, particularly determining spatial sense and navigation.
The parietal lobe is a lobe in the brain positioned above the occipital lobe and behind the frontal lobe which integrates sensory information from different modalities, particularly determining spatial sense and navigation.
Olfactory nerve
The olfactory nerve is the first of twelve cranial nerves, transmitting sensory information arising from the sense of smell.
The olfactory nerve is the first of twelve cranial nerves, transmitting sensory information arising from the sense of smell.
Oculomotor nerve
The oculomotor nerve is the third of twelve paired cranial nerves which controls most of the eye movements, constriction of the pupil, and holding the eyelid open.
The oculomotor nerve is the third of twelve paired cranial nerves which controls most of the eye movements, constriction of the pupil, and holding the eyelid open.
Vestibulocochlear nerve
The vestibulocochlear nerve, also known as the auditory or acoustic nerve, is the eighth of twelve cranial nerves, and is responsible for transmitting sound and equilibrium information from the inner ear to the brain.
The vestibulocochlear nerve, also known as the auditory or acoustic nerve, is the eighth of twelve cranial nerves, and is responsible for transmitting sound and equilibrium information from the inner ear to the brain.
Pyramidal cell
A pyramidal cell is a multipolar neuron located in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex.
A pyramidal cell is a multipolar neuron located in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex.
Purkinje cell
Purkinje cells are a class of GABAergic neuron located in the cerebellar cortex, some of the largest neurons in the human brain.
Purkinje cells are a class of GABAergic neuron located in the cerebellar cortex, some of the largest neurons in the human brain.
Ependyma
The ependyma is the thin epithelial membrane lining the ventricular system of the brain and the spinal cord canal.
The ependyma is the thin epithelial membrane lining the ventricular system of the brain and the spinal cord canal.
Phenethylamine
Phenethylamine is an alkaloid monoamine believed to function as a neuromodulator or neurotransmitter. It is biosynthesized from the amino acid phenylalanine by enzymatic decarboxylation.
Phenethylamine is an alkaloid monoamine believed to function as a neuromodulator or neurotransmitter. It is biosynthesized from the amino acid phenylalanine by enzymatic decarboxylation.
Neurotensin
Neurotensin is a 13 amino acid neuropeptide that is implicated in the regulation of luteinizing hormone and prolactin release and has significant interaction with the dopaminergic system.
Neurotensin is a 13 amino acid neuropeptide that is implicated in the regulation of luteinizing hormone and prolactin release and has significant interaction with the dopaminergic system.
NMDA receptor
The NMDA receptor is an ionotropic receptor for glutamate which allows flow of sodium ions and small amounts of calcium ions into the cell and potassium out of the cell.
The NMDA receptor is an ionotropic receptor for glutamate which allows flow of sodium ions and small amounts of calcium ions into the cell and potassium out of the cell.
Neuropeptide Y
Neuropeptide Y is a peptide neurotransmitter found in the brain and autonomic nervous system that augments the vasoconstrictor effects of noradrenergic neurons.
Neuropeptide Y is a peptide neurotransmitter found in the brain and autonomic nervous system that augments the vasoconstrictor effects of noradrenergic neurons.
Pinealocyte
Pinealocytes are the main cells of the pineal gland which produce and secrete melatonin.
Pinealocytes are the main cells of the pineal gland which produce and secrete melatonin.
Vagus nerve
The vagus nerve, the tenth cranial nerve, is the only nerve that starts in the brainstem. It extends through the jugular foramen, down below the head, to the neck, chest and abdomen.
The vagus nerve, the tenth cranial nerve, is the only nerve that starts in the brainstem. It extends through the jugular foramen, down below the head, to the neck, chest and abdomen.
Occipital lobe
The occipital lobe is the visual processing center of the mammalian brain, containing most of the anatomical region of the visual cortex.
The occipital lobe is the visual processing center of the mammalian brain, containing most of the anatomical region of the visual cortex.
Sympathetic trunk
The sympathetic trunk is a bundle of nerve fibers, a chain of ganglia, that runs from the base of the skull to the coccyx.
The sympathetic trunk is a bundle of nerve fibers, a chain of ganglia, that runs from the base of the skull to the coccyx.
Neural pathway
A neural pathway is a neural tract connecting one part of the nervous system with another, usually consisting of bundles of elongated, myelin insultated neurons, known collectively as white matter.
A neural pathway is a neural tract connecting one part of the nervous system with another, usually consisting of bundles of elongated, myelin insultated neurons, known collectively as white matter.
Corticospinal tract
The corticospinal or pyramidal tract is a massive collection of axons that travel between the cerebral cortex of the brain and the spinal cord.
The corticospinal or pyramidal tract is a massive collection of axons that travel between the cerebral cortex of the brain and the spinal cord.
Arachnoid mater
The arachnoid mater is one of the three meninges. It is interposed between the more superficial dura mater and the deeper pia mater.
The arachnoid mater is one of the three meninges. It is interposed between the more superficial dura mater and the deeper pia mater.
Pia mater
The pia mater is the delicate innermost layer of the meninges.
The pia mater is the delicate innermost layer of the meninges.
Nissl body
A Nissl body is a large granular body found in nerve cells. These are rough ER.
A Nissl body is a large granular body found in nerve cells. These are rough ER.
Dendritic spine
A dendritic spine is a small membranous extrusion that protrudes from a dendrite and forms one half of a synapse.
A dendritic spine is a small membranous extrusion that protrudes from a dendrite and forms one half of a synapse.
Bipolar cell
A bipolar cell is a type of neuron having two extensions, which is a specialized sensory neuron for the transmission of special senses.
A bipolar cell is a type of neuron having two extensions, which is a specialized sensory neuron for the transmission of special senses.
Satellite cells
Satellite cells are a type of glial cell lining the exterior surface of neurons in the peripheral nervous system and which also surround neuron cell bodies within ganglia.
Satellite cells are a type of glial cell lining the exterior surface of neurons in the peripheral nervous system and which also surround neuron cell bodies within ganglia.
Chromaffin cell
Chromaffin cells are neuroendocrine cells found in the medulla of the adrenal gland and in other ganglia of the sympathetic nervous system, which secrete epinephrine, norepinephrine, and enkephalin into the bloodstream.
Chromaffin cells are neuroendocrine cells found in the medulla of the adrenal gland and in other ganglia of the sympathetic nervous system, which secrete epinephrine, norepinephrine, and enkephalin into the bloodstream.
Dopamine transporter
The dopamine transporter is a membrane spanning protein that binds the neurotransmitter dopamine and moves it from the synapse into a neuron.
The dopamine transporter is a membrane spanning protein that binds the neurotransmitter dopamine and moves it from the synapse into a neuron.
Norepinephrine transporter
The norephinephrine transporter is a transmembrane protein which transports the neurotransmitter norephinephrine from the synapse back to its vesicles for storage until later use.
The norephinephrine transporter is a transmembrane protein which transports the neurotransmitter norephinephrine from the synapse back to its vesicles for storage until later use.
Octopamine
Octopamine is a biogenic amine which is closely related to noradrenaline, and has a similar action to dopamine.
Octopamine is a biogenic amine which is closely related to noradrenaline, and has a similar action to dopamine.
Substance P
The tachykinin neuropeptide, substance P, has been associated in the regulation of mood disorders, anxiety, stress, reinforcement, neurogenesis, respiratory rhythm, neurotoxicity, nausea / emesis and pain.
The tachykinin neuropeptide, substance P, has been associated in the regulation of mood disorders, anxiety, stress, reinforcement, neurogenesis, respiratory rhythm, neurotoxicity, nausea / emesis and pain.
Spinal canal
The spinal canal or cavity is the space in the vertebrae through which the spinal cord passes.
The spinal canal or cavity is the space in the vertebrae through which the spinal cord passes.
Reticular formation
The reticular formation is a part of the brain which is involved in stereotypical actions, such as walking, sleeping, and lying down.
The reticular formation is a part of the brain which is involved in stereotypical actions, such as walking, sleeping, and lying down.
Optic chiasm
The optic chiasm is the part of the brain where the optic nerves partially cross.
The optic chiasm is the part of the brain where the optic nerves partially cross.
Rhinencephalon
The rhinencephalon is a part of the brain involved with olfaction, which includes the olfactory bulb, the olfactory tract, the olfactory tubercle and striae, the anterior olfactory nucleus and parts of the amygdala and the piriform cortex.
The rhinencephalon is a part of the brain involved with olfaction, which includes the olfactory bulb, the olfactory tract, the olfactory tubercle and striae, the anterior olfactory nucleus and parts of the amygdala and the piriform cortex.
Gyrus
A gyrus is a ridge on the cerebral cortex, generally surrounded by one or more sulci.
A gyrus is a ridge on the cerebral cortex, generally surrounded by one or more sulci.
Alpha motor neuron
Alpha motor neurons are large lower motor neurons of the brainstem and spinal cord which innervate extrafusal muscle fibers of skeletal muscle.
Alpha motor neurons are large lower motor neurons of the brainstem and spinal cord which innervate extrafusal muscle fibers of skeletal muscle.
Lower motor neuron
Lower motor neurons are the motor neurons connecting the brainstem and spinal cord to muscle fibers, bringing the nerve impulses out to the muscles.
Lower motor neurons are the motor neurons connecting the brainstem and spinal cord to muscle fibers, bringing the nerve impulses out to the muscles.
Motor unit
A motor unit is a single alpha motor neuron and all of the corresponding muscle fibers it innervates.
A motor unit is a single alpha motor neuron and all of the corresponding muscle fibers it innervates.
Gamma motor neuron
Gamma motor neurons are a component of the fusimotor system, the system by which the central nervous system controls muscle spindle sensitivity.
Gamma motor neurons are a component of the fusimotor system, the system by which the central nervous system controls muscle spindle sensitivity.
Trigeminal nerve
The trigeminal nerve, the fifth cranial nerve, is responsible for sensation in the face.
The trigeminal nerve, the fifth cranial nerve, is responsible for sensation in the face.
Facial nerve
The facial nerve, the seventh cranial nerve, controls the muscles of facial expression, and taste to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue and supplies preganglionic parasympathetic fibers to several head and neck ganglia.
The facial nerve, the seventh cranial nerve, controls the muscles of facial expression, and taste to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue and supplies preganglionic parasympathetic fibers to several head and neck ganglia.
Granule cell
Granule cells are tiny neurons found within the granular layer of the cerebellum, layer 4 of cerebral cortex, the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus, and in the olfactory bulb.
Granule cells are tiny neurons found within the granular layer of the cerebellum, layer 4 of cerebral cortex, the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus, and in the olfactory bulb.
Basket cell
Basket cells are inhibitory GABAergic interneurons found in the molecular layer of the cerebellum which synapse on the cell bodies of Purkinje cells.
Basket cells are inhibitory GABAergic interneurons found in the molecular layer of the cerebellum which synapse on the cell bodies of Purkinje cells.
Betz cell
Betz cells are pyramidal cell neurons located within the fifth layer of the grey matter in the primary motor cortex.
Betz cells are pyramidal cell neurons located within the fifth layer of the grey matter in the primary motor cortex.
Renshaw cell
Renshaw cells are inhibitory interneurons found in the gray matter of the spinal cord.
Renshaw cells are inhibitory interneurons found in the gray matter of the spinal cord.
Glial fibrillary acidic protein
Glial fibrillary acidic protein is an intermediate filament protein that is found in glial cells such as astrocytes.
Glial fibrillary acidic protein is an intermediate filament protein that is found in glial cells such as astrocytes.
Myelin basic protein
Myelin basic protein is a protein believed to be important in the process of myelination of nerves in the central nervous system.
Myelin basic protein is a protein believed to be important in the process of myelination of nerves in the central nervous system.
Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein
Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein is a glycoprotein believed to be important in the process of myelinization of nerves in the central nervous system.
Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein is a glycoprotein believed to be important in the process of myelinization of nerves in the central nervous system.
Phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase
Phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase is an enzyme found in the adrenal medulla that converts norepinephrine to epinephrine.
Phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase is an enzyme found in the adrenal medulla that converts norepinephrine to epinephrine.
Neurokinin A
The neuropeptide neurokinin A is a neurotransmitter with various roles roles in human physiology. It is produced by the same gene as substance P.
The neuropeptide neurokinin A is a neurotransmitter with various roles roles in human physiology. It is produced by the same gene as substance P.
Anandamide
Anandamide, also known as AEA, is an endogenous cannabinoid neurotransmitter found in human organs, especially in the brain.
Anandamide, also known as AEA, is an endogenous cannabinoid neurotransmitter found in human organs, especially in the brain.
Trochlear nerve
The trochlear nerve, the fourth cranial nerve, is a motor nerve that innervates a single muscle: the superior oblique muscle of the eye.
The trochlear nerve, the fourth cranial nerve, is a motor nerve that innervates a single muscle: the superior oblique muscle of the eye.
Abducens nerve
The abducens nerve, the sixth cranial nerve, is a motor nerve that controls the movement of a single muscle, the lateral rectus muscle of the eye.
The abducens nerve, the sixth cranial nerve, is a motor nerve that controls the movement of a single muscle, the lateral rectus muscle of the eye.
Glossopharyngeal nerve
The glossopharyngeal nerve is the ninth cranial nerve, which exits the brainstem just rostral to the vagus nerve.
The glossopharyngeal nerve is the ninth cranial nerve, which exits the brainstem just rostral to the vagus nerve.
Accessory nerve
The accessory nerve is a nerve that controls specific muscles of the neck, considered a cranial nerve because part of it originates in the brain.
The accessory nerve is a nerve that controls specific muscles of the neck, considered a cranial nerve because part of it originates in the brain.
Hypoglossal nerve
The hypoglossal nerve is the twelfth cranial nerve, arising from the hypoglossal nucleus and emerging from the medulla oblongata in the preolivary sulcus separating the olive and the pyramid.
The hypoglossal nerve is the twelfth cranial nerve, arising from the hypoglossal nucleus and emerging from the medulla oblongata in the preolivary sulcus separating the olive and the pyramid.