Nervous System

Functions of the Nervous System are to regulate body movement, regulate secretion from glands, gather information about the external environment and the status of the internal environment, maintain a status of consciousness and stimulate things such as fear, hunger, thirst, etc.

Central Nervous System: This system is made up of the brain and the spinal cord.

Brain:

• Cerebrum - Large upper part of the brain divided into the right and left hemispheres by longitudinal fissure

  • Function: coordinates movement and regulates temperature

• Cerebellum - located at the back of the brain above the brainstem

  • Function: receives sensory information and is responsible for posture, balance, coordination.

• Brain Stem - located at the base of the brain and the top of the spinal cord

  • Function: breathing and heart rate.

• Meninges - layers that cover the brain. (Superficial to deep)

  • Dura Mater: outermost layer, connected to the bone in the cranial cavity. Has an outer and inner layer.

  • Arachnoid: Has webbing that allows it to accommodate fluid. It is important for injury prevention, and continues to the spinal cord

  • Pia Mater: delicate membrane that invest the brain and spinal cord, following the grooves and depression closely.

• Tentorium Cerebelli- membranous separation between the cerebellum and the cerebrum

• Pituitary Gland - The Pituitary Gland is located below the Hypothalamus. It is know as the "Master Gland". The Pituitary Gland is responsible for the creation of Growth Hormone (GH), Thyroid - Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Prolactin (PRL), Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), and Follicle- Stimulating Hormone (FSH).

Peripheral Nervous system:

• Brachial Plexus - a network of nerves derived from the last three cervical and first one or two thoracic nerves. The Brachial Plexus gives rise to specific nerves that innervate the muscles of the thoracic limb.

• Lumbosacral Plexus - both left and right lumbosacral plexus supply nerves to the respective pelvic limbs. They are made up of the ventral branches of the last few lumbar and first tow or three sacral nerves.