Types of Peripheral Nervous System
The somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system are the two primary types of the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
Somatic Nervous System (SNS)
- The somatic nervous system is responsible for the voluntary control of skeletal muscles in addition to transmitting motor commands from the CNS to muscles and sensory information from the body to the CNS.
- It is composed of motor neurons that transmit commands from the brain to the skeletal muscles to control voluntary movements, and sensory neurons that transfer information from the CNS to sense receptors (such as touch, pain, temperature, and proprioception).
Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)
- The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary body processes such as glandular production, breathing, heartbeat, and digestion.
- It maintains homeostasis and reacts correctly to both internal and external stimuli.
- Sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve systems are the two additional branches that make up the ANS.
Sympathetic Nervous System
- In stressful or dangerous situations, the sympathetic nervous system primes the body for “fight or flight” reactions.
- It quickens the pulse, widens the airways, reroutes blood flow to the skeletal muscles, and promotes the release of glucose into the bloodstream for energy.
- The lumbar and thoracic portions of the spinal cord are the source of sympathetic neurons.
Parasympathetic Nervous System
- The parasympathetic nervous system promotes “rest and digestion” responses to improve relaxation and save energy.
- It enhances digestive processes, lowers heart rate, narrows airways, and supports body processes related to relaxation and recuperation.
- The brainstem and the sacral area of the spinal cord are the source of parasympathetic neurons.
Animals Nervous System
An animal’s nervous system is a complex structure of tissues and cells that is essential to its ability to operate. Animals nervous system parts and functions consist of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, coordinating sensory input, processing information, and generating responses to maintain homeostasis and regulate bodily functions. The nervous system regulates every bodily function, from basic reflexes to intricate actions. In this article, we will cover the animal nervous system, its parts, classification, and more. You can also find Animals Nervous System notes here.
Table of Content
- What is Animal Nervous System?
- Functions of the Animal Nervous System
- Anatomy of the Nervous System
- Types of Peripheral Nervous System
- Neurons: The Building Blocks
- Parts of the Brain and Their Functions
- Types of Nerves
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