Nervous and Endocrine System Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is the function of the nervous system?
To transmit information quickly and reliably over long distances.
What is an action potential?
A bioelectric signal that travels along the axon to transmit information.
What increases the speed of action potentials?
Myelination.
What are the divisions of the autonomic nervous system?
Sympathetic (“fight or flight”) and Parasympathetic (“rest and digest”).
Which neurotransmitter is used at the neuromuscular junction?
Acetylcholine (ACh).
What are the types of synapses?
Electrical and Chemical.
What is the main difference between endocrine and nervous systems?
Endocrine is slower and long-acting; nervous is faster and short-acting.
What are endocrine glands?
Ductless glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream.
Name a hormone from the posterior pituitary.
Oxytocin or Antidiuretic hormone (ADH).
What hormone increases blood calcium levels?
Parathyroid hormone (PTH).
What is the function of oxytocin?
Stimulates uterine contraction during labor (positive feedback).
What hormone is deficient in diabetes insipidus?
Antidiuretic hormone (ADH).
What are somatomedins?
IGF-1 produced by the liver in response to growth hormone.
Which hormone is secreted by the adrenal cortex and follows a diurnal rhythm?
Cortisol.
