Introduction

The nervous system processes information throughout the body by carrying signals between the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS). The CNS is composed of the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS consists of nerves which are connected to the CNS and reach the rest of the body.

The spinal cord

The spinal cord consists of a central canal filled with cerebrospinal fluid, and grey (H shape) and white matter. Nerves connect to the cord, while the meninges act to protect the cord (alongside the brain).

The brain

The brain has several key parts: the medulla oblongata, the cerebellum, the cerebrum and the hypothalamus.

The cerebrum

The cerebrum is the uppermost part of the brain that contains many different lobes that control various voluntary functions such as speech, movement and thought.

The hypothalamus

The hypothalamus includes the anterior pituitary gland, the master gland which secretes different hormones key in metabolism and…