Module 1 - Body Systems

• The nervous system has three main functions: sensory input, integration of data and motor output. Sensory input is when the body gathers information or data, by way of neurons, glia and synapses. The nervous system is composed of excitable nerve cells (neurons) and synapses that form between the neurons and connect them to centers throughout the body or to other neurons.
• The nervous system is comprised of two major parts, or subdivisions,

  • the central nervous system (CNS)
  • the peripheral nervous system (PNS)
• The Central Nervous System includes the brain and spinal cord. The brain is the body’s “control center.” The CNS has various centers located within it that carry out the sensory, motor and integration of data. These centers can be subdivided to Lower Centers (including the spinal cord and brain stem) and Higher centers communicating with the brain via effectors.
• The Peripheral Nervous System is a vast network of spinal and cranial nerves that are linked to the brain and the spinal cord. It contains sensory receptors which help in processing changes in the internal and external environment. This information is sent to the CNS via afferent sensory nerves.

  • Autonomic - involuntary control
  • Somatic - voluntarily control
• Endocrine System

  • are those glands which have no duct and release their secretions directly into the intercellular fluid or into the blood.
  • produces hormones that are instrumental in maintaining homeostasis and regulating reproduction and development