The nervous system is a network of neurons whose main feature is to generate, modulate and transmit information between all the different parts of the human body. This property enables many important functions of the nervous system, such as regulation of vital body functions (heartbeat, breathing, digestion), sensation and body movements. Ultimately, the nervous system structures preside over everything that makes us human; our consciousness, cognition, behaviour and memories.
The nervous system consists of two divisions;
- Central nervous system (CNS) is the integration and command center of the body
- Peripheral nervous system (PNS) represents the conduit between the CNS and the body. It is further subdivided into the somatic nervous system (SNS) and the autonomic nervous system (ANS).
| Definition | A network of neurons that sends, receives and modulates neural impulses between different body parts. |
| Divisions | Central nervous system Peripheral nervous system |
| Central nervous system | Brain and spinal cord |
| Peripheral nervous system | Spinal and cranial nerves. Functional divisions: – Somatic nervous system – Autonomic nervous system; sympathetic, parasympathetic and enteric divisions |
