Nervous and Endocrine Systems Nervous System Functions Thought

Nervous and Endocrine Systems

Nervous System

Functions • Thought processes • Coordination of movement • Relays information from the body to the brain or other organs

Organs • Brain – main control center for the body. • Spinal Cord – column of nervous tissue that runs through the backbone. • Nerves – bundles of tissue that carry impulses from one place to another. • Neurons – nerve cells

How it Works

Central Nervous System • Brain and Spinal Cord Peripheral Nervous System • All other nerves

Nerve Cell • Cell Body – central part • Axons – carry signals from one nerve cell to others. • Dendrites – receive signals from other nerve cells. • Synapse – area between nerve cells where signals are passed. • Neurotransmitter – chemicals that carry nerve signals.

The Brain • Cerebrum – center for thought, imagination, and emotions. • Cerebellum – controls balance, posture, movement, and coordination. • Brain Stem – guides signals from spinal cord to other parts of the brain, and controls many autonomic actions such as breathing and heartbeat.

Cerebrum

Endocrine System

Functions • Works with nervous system to coordinate and regulate the body. • Produces Hormones

Hormones • Substances secreted by cells in specific organs that act to regulate other cell functions in the body.

Organs • • Pituitary Gland – growth Pineal Gland – sleep patterns Parathyroid Gland – regulates blood calcium Thymus Gland – regulates immune system Thyroid Gland – regulates metabolism Adrenal Gland – “fight” or “flight” response Pancreas – regulates blood sugar Gonads – stimulate development of secondary sex characteristics and reproductive cycles. (ovaries and testes)

How It Works 1. Signals are sent by the nervous system to a particular gland. 2. The gland releases hormones into the bloodstream. 3. The hormones control many types of cells to regulate the specific body process.