- Bacterial Meningitis
- *Clostridium*-Associated Diseases
- Hansen’s Disease (Leprosy)
- Listeriosis

Bacterial Infections of the Nervous System

- Arboviral Encephalitis
- Zika Virus Infection
- Rabies
- Poliomyelitis
- Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies

Acellular Diseases of the Nervous System

- Cryptococcal Meningitis
- Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis
- Granulomatous Amoebic Encephalitis
- Human African Trypanosomiasis
- Neurotoxoplasmosis
- Neurocysticercosis

Fungal Infections of the Nervous System

The nervous system is comprised of two primary cell types: neurons and glial cells. Neurons act as the main information processors, and the communication between them is essential for all nervous system functions. Glial cells, or glia, primarily serve in supporting roles for the neurons.

Cells of the Nervous System

Imagine you see a glass of water on a table and decide to take a drink. Your eyes send the visual information, your brain makes the decision, and a signal is sent to your arm and hand muscles to reach out and grasp the glass. How do the two primary subdivisions of the nervous system work together to accomplish this action?

Comprising the brain and the spinal cord, the Central Nervous System (CNS) serves as a primary division of the broader nervous system. Anatomical illustrations highlight its centralized location within the human body.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) is a major division of the nervous system consisting of nerves located in the periphery of the body, which includes everything outside the central nervous system (CNS). These thick bundles of axons carry messages back and forth between the CNS and the body's muscles, organs, and senses.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Psychologists who aim to study the human mind require a basic understanding of the two primary subdivisions of the nervous system:
- Central Nervous System (CNS)
- Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) 

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Biopsychology involves the study of:
* Human Genetics
* Cells of the Nervous System
* Parts of the Nervous System
* The Brain and Spinal Cord
* The Endocrine System

Areas of Biopsychological Study

A human's nervous system is in charge of managing our cognitions, movements, and responses. It is comprised of billions of neurons, glial cells, and the central and peripheral nervous systems. 

Nervous System

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

The expanded, front section of the central nervous system located within the skull. It is an incredibly intricate organ made up of billions of interconnected neurons and glial cells. The brain is a bilateral structure, meaning it has two sides, and can be divided into distinct lobes. Each lobe is linked to specific functions, but all parts of the brain work together to underpin our thoughts and behaviors.

Brain

Functioning as the vital link between the brain and the external world, the spinal cord acts as an intelligent relay station. It is responsible for routing messages between the brain and the body through all of its segments, and it also independently manages a system of automatic processes known as reflexes.

Spinal Cord

The endocrine system is a network of glands responsible for secreting hormones that regulate normal bodily functions.

Endocrine System

Parts of the Nervous System

The spinal cord can be conceptualized as an extension of the brain. It serves as the primary pathway for communication, enabling the brain to influence and interact with the rest of the body and the external environment.

The Brain and the Spinal Cord

Psychologists study genetics to better understand the biological foundations of behavior. Although humans share common biological mechanisms and structures, such as brains, hormones, and genetic codes, these elements are expressed in a vast diversity of individual behaviors, thoughts, and reactions. This field explores how inherited traits contribute to this uniqueness and influence both physiological and psychological characteristics.

Human Genetics

The nervous system's capacity to change and adapt is known as neuroplasticity. This adaptation can be triggered by various factors, such as personal experiences, normal developmental stages, or in response to damage or injury. The underlying mechanisms of neuroplasticity include the formation of new synapses, the elimination of unused ones, modifications in glial cells, and even the generation of new neurons. While the brain's plasticity is at its peak during early life, it retains a significant capacity for change and reorganization throughout adulthood.

Neuroplasticity

Neurons are specialized cells located in the nervous system that send information between different parts of the body and the brain.

Neurons

The hypothalamus is a brain structure that regulates various homeostatic processes, including blood pressure, appetite, and body temperature. It serves as an interface between the nervous system and the endocrine system, and it controls the hormonal secretions of the pituitary gland. Furthermore, it is involved in regulating sexual behavior and motivation.

Hypothalamus

The nervous system is structurally divided into two major subdivisions: the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Visual illustrations typically distinguish these two by depicting the brain and spinal cord for the CNS, and the extensive network of connecting nerves throughout the body for the PNS.

Two Major Subdivisions of the Nervous System

Imagine a person accidentally touches a hot pan. They instantly withdraw their hand. Which statement best breaks down how their nervous system coordinated this rapid, involuntary response?

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