the nerVOus system 261the nervous system
The nervous system produces signals
that flow between the brain and spinal
cord and other parts of the body.
Together with chemical signals from
the endocrine system, these nerve
impulses (action potentials) provide
the communication required to monitor,
adjust, and regulate all body functions.the nervous system in homeostasis
Immunity and the lymphatic system
Positive/negative mental states may strengthen/
weaken some immune responses.Muscular system
Signals from motor areas stimulate skeletal muscle
contractions required for movement; signals from
the cerebellum coordinate motor activity and maintain
posture; spinal cord governs reflex movements.Digestive system
Parasympathetic nerves regulate various aspects of
digestion. Sensory signals trigger release of saliva,
feelings of hunger/fullness, and regulate peristalsis.Urinary system
Reflexes govern urination (bladder emptying);
parasympathetic nerves adjust blood flow to the
kidneys.Sensory systems
Sensory association areas manage perception
of sensory information, including injury to sense
organs.Endocrine system
Signals from the hypothalamus trigger the secretion
of hormones from the pituitary gland. Signals from
parasympathetic nerves regulate the release of
hormones from the pancreas and adrenals.Cardiovascular system and blood
Centers in the brain stem help control the heart
rate and help maintain proper blood pressure by
adjusting the diameter of arterioles.Reproductive system
The hypothalamus governs the release of sex
hormones and functioning of ovaries and testes.
Sexual arousal and behavior depends on signals
Unless otherwise indicated, all art on this page is © Cengage Learning. from the hypothalamus and the limbic system.Respiratory system
Centers in the brain stem adjust the rate and depth
of breathing.Skeletal system
Sensory nerves that
service bone tissue signal
damage due to breaks or
other physical harm.Integumentary system
Sweat glands and skeletal
muscles that move hair
follicles receive signals
from sympathetic nerves
(autonomic division of
the PNS). Sensory nerve
endings detect pain,
pressure, temperature.13.14
ConneCtions
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