Glossary

Division of the anterior (ventral) cavity that houses the abdominal and pelvic viscera.

Sixth cranial nerve; responsible for contraction of one of the extraocular muscles.

An important neurotransmitter.

Protein that makes up most of the thin myofilaments in a sarcomere muscle fibre.

Change in voltage of a cell membrane in response to a stimulus that results in transmission of an electrical signal; unique to neurons and muscle fibres.

Form of transport across the cell membrane that requires input of cellular energy.

Lower energy form of ATP, containing two phosphate groups after the third phosphate group phosphorylated another molecule and transferring energy to it.

Nucleotide containing ribose and an adenine base that is essential in energy transfer.

Lipid storage cells.

Specialized areolar tissue rich in stored fat.

Endocrine glands located at the top of each kidney that are important for the regulation of the stress response, blood pressure and blood volume, water homeostasis, and electrolyte levels.

Inner layer of the adrenal glands that plays an important role in the stress response by producing epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Synapse where norepinephrine is released, which binds to α- or β-adrenergic receptors.

An ionic solution with basic properties (pH >7).

Chemical functional group NH2, a component of amino acids.

Building block of proteins; characterized by an amino and carboxyl functional groups and a variable side-chain.

Molecule that contains both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions;.

In the ear, the structure at the base of a semicircular canal that contains the hair cells and cupula for transduction of rotational movement of the head.

Reactions that build smaller molecules into larger molecules.

Atom with a negative charge.

Muscle that opposes the action of an agonist.

Lower arm, between elbow and wrist.

Describes the front or direction toward the front of the body; also referred to as ventral.

Gray matter of the spinal cord containing multipolar motor neurons, sometimes referred to as the ventral horn.

(Also, immunoglobulin) antigen-specific protein secreted by plasma cells.

Largest artery in the body, originating from the left ventricle and descending to the abdominal region where it bifurcates into the common iliac arteries at the level of the fourth lumbar vertebra; arteries originating from the aorta distribute blood to virtually all tissues of the body.

That part of a cell or tissue which, in general, faces an open space.

Type of sweat gland that is associated with hair follicles in the armpits and genital regions.

Programmed cell death.

Outpocket of the arachnoid membrane into the dural sinuses that allows for reabsorption of CSF into the blood.

Middle layer of the meninges named for the spider-web–like trabeculae that extend between it and the pia mater.

Filaments between the arachnoid and pia mater within the subarachnoid space.

Central nervous system fibers carrying sensory information from the spinal cord or periphery to the brain.

The smallest unit of an element that retains the unique properties of that element.

Number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.

Fleshy external structure of the ear.

Functional division of the nervous system that is responsible for homeostatic reflexes that coordinate control of cardiac and smooth muscle, as well as glandular tissue.

Lacking blood vessels.

Single process of the neuron that carries an electrical signal (action potential) away from the cell body toward a target cell.

Tapering of the neuron cell body that gives rise to the axon.

Single stretch of the axon insulated by myelin and bounded by nodes of Ranvier at either end (except for the first, which is after the initial segment, and the last, which is followed by the axon terminal).

End of the axon, where there are usually several branches extending toward the target cell.

That part of a tissue close to underlying body structures.

Thin extracellular layer that lies underneath epithelial cells and separates them from other tissues.

Nuclei of the cerebrum (with a few components in the upper brain stem and diencephalon) that are responsible for assessing cortical movement commands and comparing them with the general state of the individual through broad modulatory activity of dopamine neurons; largely related to motor functions, as evidenced through the symptoms of Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases.

In epithelial tissue, a thin layer of fibrous material that anchors the epithelial tissue to the underlying connective tissue; made up of the basal lamina and reticular lamina.

In the ear, the floor of the cochlear duct on which the organ of Corti sits.

Two-headed muscle that crosses the shoulder and elbow joints to flex the forearm while assisting in supinating it and flexing the arm at the shoulder.

Alkaline solution produced by the liver and important for the emulsification of lipids.

Upper arm, between shoulder and elbow.

Mapping of regions of the cerebral cortex based on microscopic anatomy that relates specific areas to functional differences, as described by Brodmann in the early 1900s.

(Also, Ruffini corpuscle) Cutaneous receptors sensitive to skin stretch and sustained pressure.

Beginning of the large intestine, forming a small pouch.

Smallest of the blood vessels where physical exchange occurs between the blood and tissue cells surrounded by interstitial fluid.

Class of organic compounds built from sugars, molecules containing carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen in a 1-2-1 ratio.

Chemical functional group consisting of COOH, an important part of organic acids.

One of a pair of small pockets near the base of the internal carotid arteries that are the locations of the baroreceptors and chemoreceptors that trigger a reflex that aids in the regulation of vascular homeostasis

Chemical reaction that breaks down more complex organic molecules.

Ion with a positive charge.

Life cycle of a single cell, from its birth until its division into two new daughter cells.

Process by which unspecialized cells become more specialized in structure and function.

Production of ATP from glucose oxidation via glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation.

(In anatomy) describes a position towards the middle (centre) of a structure or organ system.

Specifically referring to the cell body of a neuron in the autonomic system that is located in the central nervous system, specifically the lateral horn of the spinal cord or a brain stem nucleus.

Region of the adult brain connected primarily to the pons that developed from the metencephalon (along with the pons) and is largely responsible for comparing information from the cerebrum with sensory feedback from the periphery through the spinal cord.

connection of the ventricular system between the third and fourth ventricles located in the midbrain.

Outer gray matter covering the forebrain, marked by wrinkles and folds known as gyri and sulci.

One half of the bilaterally symmetrical cerebrum.

Circulatory medium within the CNS that is produced by ependymal cells in the choroid plexus filtering the blood.

Region of the adult brain that develops from the telencephalon and is responsible for higher neurological functions such as memory, emotion, and consciousness.

Neck

Membrane-spanning protein that has an inner pore which allows the passage of one or more substances (a form of facilitated diffusion).

Sensory receptor cell that is sensitive to chemical stimuli, such as in taste, smell, or pain.

Chemically, a type of steroid, cholesterol is a component of cell membranes and a precursor of some important vitamins and hormones.

Synapse at which acetylcholine is released and binds to the nicotinic or muscarinic receptor.

cartilage cells

Specialized structures containing ependymal cells lining blood capillaries that filter blood to produce CSF in the four ventricles of the brain.

Substance consisting of DNA and associated proteins.

Small appendage on certain cells formed by microtubules and modified for movement of materials across the cellular surface (singular = cilium).

Lowest part of the vertebral column; 'tailbone'

Auditory portion of the inner ear containing structures to transduce sound stimuli.

(Also scala media) space within the auditory portion of the inner ear that contains the organ of Corti and is adjacent to the scala tympani and scala vestibuli on either side.

The most abundant of three protein fibres found in the extracellular matrix of connective tissues.

Portion of the large intestine.

A substance composed of two or more different elements joined by chemical bonds.

Difference in the concentration of a substance between two regions.

Type of tissue that serves to hold in place, connect, and integrate the body’s organs and systems.

Connective tissue containing a viscous matrix, fibers, and cells.

Slow propagation of an action potential along an unmyelinated axon owing to voltage-gated Na+ channels located along the entire length of the cell membrane.

Opposite side of the body.

Compares values to their normal range; deviations cause the activation of an effector.

Division of the posterior (dorsal) cavity that houses the brain.

One of twelve nerves connected to the brain that are responsible for sensory or motor functions of the head and neck.

Alternate name for the parasympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system that is based on the anatomical location of central neurons in brain-stem nuclei and the lateral horn of the sacral spinal cord; also referred to as craniosacral outflow.

Sense organ that responds to rotational movement (dynamic equilibrium), contained in each ampulla.

The portion of the lower limb between the knee and the ankle.

Specialized structure within the base of a semicircular canal that bends the stereocilia of hair cells when the head rotates by way of the relative movement of the enclosed fluid.

Skin.

Internal material between the cell membrane and nucleus of a cell, mainly consisting of a water-based fluid called cytosol, within which are all the other organelles and cellular solute and suspended materials.

Clear, semi-fluid medium of the cytoplasm, made up mostly of water.

(In anatomy) describes a position farther from the surface of the body.

One of many branchlike processes that extends from the neuron cell body and functions as a contact for incoming signals (synapses) from other neurons or sensory cells.

Mass per unit volume.

Deoxyribose-containing nucleic acid that stores genetic information.

Change in a cell membrane potential from rest toward zero.

Layer of skin between the epidermis and hypodermis, composed mainly of connective tissue and containing blood vessels, hair follicles, sweat glands, and other structures.

Central nervous system fibers carrying motor commands from the brain to the spinal cord or periphery.

Region of the adult brain that retains its name from embryonic development and includes the thalamus and hypothalamus.

Movement of a substance from an area of higher concentration to one of lower concentration.

Becoming wider, larger or more open.

Molecule with a negatively charged portion separated from a positively charged portion.

Molecule formed of a pair of monosaccharides; important to human physiology are sucrose, lactose and maltose.

Scatter or break up.

Describes a position in a limb that is farther from the point of attachment or the trunk of the body.

Posterior body cavity that houses the brain and spinal cord; also referred to the posterior body cavity.

Sensory ganglion attached to the posterior nerve root of a spinal nerve.

Tough, fibrous, outer layer of the meninges that is attached to the inner surface of the cranium and vertebral column and surrounds the entire CNS.

Any of the venous structures surrounding the brain, enclosed within the dura mater, which drain blood from the CNS to the common venous return of the jugular veins.

Modality of equilibrium relating to rotational movement of the head.

Type of sweat gland that is common throughout the skin surface; it produces a hypotonic sweat for thermoregulation.

Organ that can cause a change in a value.

Type of cartilage, with elastin as the major protein, characterized by rigid support as well as elasticity.

Fibrous protein within connective tissue that contains a high percentage of the protein elastin that allows the fibers to stretch and return to original size.

One of three protein fibres found in connective tissues.

Surface recording of the electrical activity of the heart that can be used for diagnosis of irregular heart function.

A solution containing ions; sometimes referring to ions themselves.

A subatomic particle having a negative charge and nearly no mass; found orbiting the atom’s nucleus.

Area of space a given distance from an atom’s nucleus in which electrons are grouped.

The tendency of an atom to attract electrons in a covalent bond.

A substance that cannot be created or broken down by ordinary chemical means

Developing human during weeks 3–8.

Process of forming an emulsion.

Combination of two or more unmixable liquids where one liquid contains a dispersion of the other liquids (often as tiny droplets).

Configuration of a sensory receptor neuron with dendrites surrounded by specialized structures to aid in transduction of a particular type of sensation, such as the lamellated corpuscles in the deep dermis and subcutaneous tissue.

Tissue or organ that secretes hormones into the blood and lymph without ducts such that they may be transported to organs distant from the site of secretion.

Import of material into the cell by formation of a membrane-bound vesicle.

Extracellular fluid of the inner ear, lying within the membranous labyrinth.

Set of cellular organelles that often work together to produce, package and export certain products.

Cellular organelle that consists of interconnected membrane-bound tubules, which may or may not be associated with ribosomes (rough type or smooth type, respectively).

Layer of smooth, simple squamous epithelium that lines the endocardium and blood vessels.

Neural tissue associated with the digestive system that is responsible for nervous control through autonomic connections.

Molecule (usually a protein) that catalyzes chemical reactions.

Glial cell type that filters blood at the choroid plexus.

outermost tissue layer of the skin

Abdominopelvic region located in the central superior area below the xiphoid process.

Signaling molecule released from the adrenal medulla into the bloodstream as part of the sympathetic response.

Region of the diecephalon containing the pineal gland.

Type of tissue that serves primarily as a covering or lining of body parts, protecting the body; it also functions in absorption, transport, and secretion.

Red blood cell.

(Also pharyngotympanic tube) tube linking the pharynx and middle ear, important for equalizing air pressure in the middle ear.

Export of a substance out of a cell by formation of a membrane-bound vesicle.

Structures on the lateral surface of the head, including the auricle and the ear canal back to the tympanic membrane.

Sensory receptor that is positioned to interpret stimuli from the external environment, such as photoreceptors in the eye or somatosensory receptors in the skin.

One of six muscles originating out of the bones of the orbit and inserting into the surface of the eye which are responsible for moving the eye.

Diffusion of a substance with the aid of a membrane protein.

Consisting of a carboxyl group (COOH) and an unbranched hydrocarbon chain. A non-polar component of all lipids.

Thigh bone; the single bone of the thigh.

Developing human during the time from the end of the embryonic period (week 9) to birth.

Most abundant cell type in connective tissue, secretes protein fibers and matrix into the extracellular space.

Tough form of cartilage, made of thick bundles of collagen fibers embedded in chondroitin sulfate ground substance.

Mature, less active form of a fibroblast.

General anatomical term for a hole or opening (usually in bone. Plural = foramina

The portion of the ventricular system that is in the region of the brain stem and opens into the subarachnoid space through the median and lateral apertures.

Configuration of a sensory receptor neuron with dendrites in the connective tissue of the organ, such as in the dermis of the skin, that are most often sensitive to chemical, thermal, and mechanical stimuli.

Two-dimensional, vertical plane that divides the body or organ into anterior and posterior portions.

Group of atoms linked by strong covalent bonds that tends to behave as a distinct unit in chemical reactions with other atoms.

Localized collection of neuron cell bodies in the peripheral nervous system.

Cell that gives rise to a gamete.

Ninth cranial nerve; responsible for contraction of muscles in the tongue and throat and for part of the sense of taste, as well as causing saliva production.

Monosaccharide commonly used as energy in the body (substrate for glycolysis).

Molecule that forms the 'backbone' of many lipids, including triglycerides.

Coating of carbohydrate molecules that surrounds the cell membrane.

Polysaccharide used as a storage form of glucose in the liver.

Protein that has one or more carbohydrates attached.

Cellular organelle formed by a series of flattened, membrane-bound sacs that functions in protein modification, tagging, packaging, and transport.

Change in the membrane potential that varies in size, depending on the size of the stimulus that elicits it.

Regions of the nervous system containing cell bodies of neurons with few or no myelinated axons; actually may be more pink or tan in color, but called gray in contrast to white matter.

Fluid or semi-fluid portion of the matrix.

(Also, somatotropin) anterior pituitary hormone that promotes tissue building and influences nutrient metabolism.

Sensory cells in the taste bud that transduce the chemical stimuli of gustation.

Ridge formed by convolutions on the surface of the cerebrum or cerebellum.

Mechanoreceptor cells found in the inner ear that transduce stimuli for the senses of hearing and balance.

Cavity or sac from which hair originates.

Big toe

Tip of the cochlea where the scale vestibuli meets the scala tympani.

Oxygen-carrying protein in erythrocytes (red blood cells).

(Also, hematopoiesis) production of the formed elements of blood.

Posterior region of the adult brain that develops from the rhombencephalon and includes the pons, medulla oblongata, and cerebellum.

Vasoactive (active on blood vessels) mediator in granules of mast cells and is the primary cause of allergies and anaphylactic shock.

Microscopic study of tissue architecture, organization, and function.

Steady state of body systems that living organisms maintain.

Condition in which solute molecules are distributed equally in a solution.

(in immunology) referring to the organism in, or on, which a pathogen lives.

Most common type of cartilage, smooth and made of short collagen fibers embedded in a chondroitin sulfate ground substance.

An organic compound consisting entirely of carbon and hydrogen.

Dipole-dipole bond in which a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to an electronegative atom is weakly attracted to a second electronegative atom.

Chemical reaction in which a molecule water is split into H and OPH, thereby breaking a bond and severing a compound.

"Water loving"; a molecule or portion thereof that is polar and therefore water soluble.

"Water hating"; a molecule or portion thereof that is nonpolar and therefore water insoluble.

A form of calcium phosphate mineral found in bones (also hydroxylapatite)

A functional group, OH, present in many organic compounds including alcohols.

Change in cell membrane potential below resting potential (<-70mV).

Describes a solution concentration that is higher than a reference concentration.

Abdominopelvic region (left or right) located under the lowest ribs in the superior corners of the abdominopelvic cavity.

Central inferior abdominopelvic region.

Describes a solution concentration that is lower than a reference concentration.

Abdominopelvic region in the left or right inferior corners of the abdomen, below the hip bone.

Describes a position below or lower than another part of the body proper; near or toward the tail (in humans, the coccyx, or lowest part of the spinal column); also referred to as caudal.

Half of the midbrain tectum that is part of the brain stem auditory pathway.

Structure within the temporal bone that contains the sensory apparati of hearing and balance.

A substance that does not contain both carbon and hydrogen.

Hormone that enhances the cellular uptake and utilization of glucose, thereby decreasing blood glucose levels.

Proteins that are permanently embedded in the membrane; most span the entire membrane.

Skin and its accessory structures.

Describes a position between a more medial and a more lateral structure.

Sensation of stimuli from internal organs.

Sensory receptor that is positioned to interpret stimuli from internal organs, such as stretch receptors in the wall of blood vessels.

Extracellular fluid in the small spaces between cells not contained within blood vessels.

Fluid inside cells.

(In physiology) though under nervous control (usually from the brain), control is not conscious.

Atom with an overall positive or negative charge. Many function as electrolytes.

Attraction between an anion and a cation.

Describes a solution concentration that is the same as a reference concentration.

One of a pair of major veins located in the neck region that flows parallel to the common carotid artery that is more or less its counterpart; primarily drains blood from the brain, receives the superficial facial vein, and empties into the subclavian vein.

Type of structural protein that gives skin, hair, and nails its hard, water-resistant properties.

Cell that produces keratin and is the most predominant type of cell found in the epidermis.

Sense of body movement based on sensations in skeletal muscles, tendons, joints, and the skin.

Energy that matter possesses because of its motion.

Duct in the medial corner of the orbit that drains tears into the nasal cavity.

Gland lateral to the orbit that produces tears to wash across the surface of the eye.

Encapsulated mechanoreceptor cell found in the skin that responds to pressure and touch.

Describes the side or direction toward the side of the body.

Region of the spinal cord gray matter in the thoracic, upper lumbar, and sacral regions that is the central component of the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system.

Portions of the ventricular system that are in the region of the cerebrum.

Ion channel (facilitated diffusion) that opens randomly and is not gated to a specific event, also known as a non-gated channel.

A channel protein (facilitated diffusion) that is activated (opens) when a molecule (such as a neurotransmitter) binds to it.

Structures at the edge (limit) of the boundary between the forebrain and hindbrain that are most associated with emotional behavior and memory formation.

Class of nonpolar organic compounds built from hydrocarbons and distinguished by the fact that they are not soluble in water.

Lower back, below the ribs.

Left or right central abdominopelvic region.

Fluid contained within the lymphatic system, consisting of interstitial fluid, leukocytes (white blood cells), proteins (including antibodies) and fats.

White blood cell characterized by a large nucleus and small rim of cytoplasm.

Membrane-bound cellular organelle originating from the Golgi apparatus and containing digestive enzymes.

large molecule formed by covalent bonding; classes of macromolecule discussed in this course include carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids.

Ameboid (irregular outline with peripheral projections) phagocyte found in several tissues throughout the body.

Enlargement at the base of a semicircular canal at which transduction of equilibrium stimuli takes place within the ampulla.

Sum of the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom.

Cell found in the skin and the lining of body cells that contains cytoplasmic granules with vasoactive mediators such as histamine.

An air space in the tympanic bone, posterior to (and connected with) the middle ear.

Large bony prominence on the inferior, lateral skull, just behind the earlobe.

(In connective tissue) extracellular material which is produced by the cells embedded in it, containing ground substance and fibres.

Scientifically, a physical substance; that which occupies space and has mass

Ion channel protein (facilitated diffusion) that opens when a physical event directly affects the structure of the protein.

Receptor cell that transduces mechanical stimuli into an electrochemical signal.

Describes the middle or direction toward the middle of the body.

A central compartment in the thoracic cavity located intermediate to the left and right pleural cavities.

Lowest (most inferior) part of the brain, controlling many autonomic functions including heart rate, breathing, and digestion.

Distribution of charge across the cell membrane, based on the charges of ions.

Protective outer coverings of the CNS composed of connective tissue.

Receptor cell in the stratum basale of the epidermis that responds to the sense of touch.

Embryonic tissue from which connective tissue cells derive.

Sum of all catabolic and anabolic reactions that take place in the body.

A chemical function group, CH3, a component of fatty acids.

Also called urination or voiding.

Middle region of the adult brain that develops from the mesencephalon.

Space within the temporal bone between the ear canal and bony labyrinth where the ossicles amplify sound waves from the tympanic membrane to the oval window.

A sagittal plane on the midline, dividing the body into equal left and right halves (also medial plane).

One of the cellular organelles bound by a double lipid bilayer that function primarily in the production of cellular energy (ATP).

Two or more atoms covalently bonded together.

A molecule that can react with other similar monomers to form a polymer; e.g. amino acids combine to form proteins.

Five or six-carbon molecule that are monomers of carbohydrates; examples include glucose, fructose, galactose, ribose and deoxyribose.

Consisting of more than one cell (as opposed organisms such as bacteria which are unicellular).

Shape of a neuron that has multiple processes—the axon and two or more dendrites.

Describes the condition of being able to differentiate into different types of cells within a given cell lineage or small number of lineages, such as a red blood cell or white blood cell.

Lipid-rich insulating substance surrounding the axons of many neurons, allowing for faster transmission of electrical signals.

Lipid-rich layer of insulation that surrounds an axon, formed by oligodendrocytes in the CNS and Schwann cells in the PNS; facilitates the transmission of electrical signals.

Muscle cell (also muscle fibre).

Protein that makes up most of the thick cylindrical myofilament within a sarcomere muscle fibre.

Homeostatic mechanism that tends to stabilize an upset in the body’s physiological condition by preventing an excessive response to a stimulus, typically as the stimulus is removed.

Cord-like bundle of axons located in the peripheral nervous system that transmits sensory input and response output to and from the central nervous system.

Supportive neural cells.

Synapse between the axon terminal of a motor neuron and the section of the membrane of a muscle fiber with receptors for the acetylcholine released by the terminal.

Excitable neural cell that transfer nerve impulses.

Chemical signal that is released from the synaptic end bulb of a neuron to cause a change in the target cell.

A heavy subatomic particle having no electrical charge and found in the atom’s nucleus.

Sensing pain.

Receptor cell that senses pain stimuli.

Gap between two myelinated regions of an axon, allowing for strengthening of the electrical signal as it propagates down the axon.

Opposite of polar; molecule with electrons that are relatively equally shared in covalent bonds.

Signaling molecule released as a neurotransmitter by most postganglionic sympathetic fibres as part of the sympathetic response, or as a hormone into the bloodstream from the adrenal medulla.

Membrane that surrounds the nucleus; consisting of a double lipid-bilayer.

One of the small, protein-lined openings found scattered throughout the nuclear envelope.

Small region of the nucleus that functions in ribosome synthesis.

Class of organic compounds composed of one or more phosphate groups, a pentose sugar, and a base.

(In nervous system) a localized collection of neuron cell bodies that are functionally related; a “center” of neural function (plural= nuclei).

Third cranial nerve; responsible for contraction of four of the extraocular muscles, the muscle in the upper eyelid, and pupillary constriction.

Referring to the sense of smell.

Central target of the first cranial nerve; located on the ventral surface of the frontal lobe in the cerebrum.

Region of the nasal epithelium where olfactory neurons are located.

Receptor cell of the olfactory system, sensitive to the chemical stimuli of smell, the axons of which compose the first cranial nerve.

Glial cell type in the CNS that provides the myelin insulation for axons in tracts.

(In anatomy), the openings for eyes in the skull.

An anatomically distinct structure of the body composed of two or more tissue types.

Structure in the cochlea in which hair cells transduce movements from sound waves into electrochemical signals.

Group of organs that work together to carry out a particular function.

A substance that contains both carbon and hydrogen.

Living being that has a cellular structure and that can independently perform all physiologic functions necessary for life.

Mouth

Receptor cell that senses differences in the concentrations of bodily fluids on the basis of osmotic pressure.

Diffusion of water molecules down their concentration gradient across a selectively permeable membrane.

Three small bones in the middle ear.

Primary cell in mature bone; responsible for maintaining the matrix.

Gelatinous substance in the utricle and saccule of the inner ear that contains calcium carbonate crystals and into which the stereocilia of hair cells are embedded.

Layer of calcium carbonate crystals located on top of the otolithic membrane.

Membrane at the base of the cochlea where the stapes attaches, marking the beginning of the scala vestibuli.

Hormone stored in the posterior pituitary gland and important in stimulating uterine contractions in labor, milk ejection during breastfeeding, and feelings of attachment (also produced in males).

Membrane attached to the inner surface of the eyelids that covers the anterior surface of the cornea.

For gustation, a bump-like projection on the surface of the tongue that contains taste buds.

A sagittal plane that does not divide the body into equal left and right halves (also longitudinal section).

Division of the autonomic nervous system responsible for restful and digestive functions.

Functional cells of a gland or organ, in contrast with the supportive or connective tissue of a gland or organ.

Facing the body wall.

Form of transport across the cell membrane that does not require input of cellular energy.

Knee cap.

An infectious agent that causes disease, typically a bacterium, virus, fungus, or microscopic parasite.

As a molecule, a short chain of amino acids. Also refers to something related to proteins.

A type of covalent bond occurring between amino acids.

Fluid found in the pericardium.

Layer of dense irregular connective tissue surrounding cartilage.

Extracellular fluid of the inner ear, lying between the membranous labyrinth and the bony labyrinth.

Describes a position towards the outer edge (periphery) of a structure or organ system.

Proteins that only temporarily adhered to the membrane; they can attach to the inner or outer surface of the lipid bilayer or to an integral protein.

Serous membrane that lines the abdominopelvic cavity and covers the organs found there.

Cell process (a form of endocytosis) in which a cell engulfs and ingests another large particle or cell.

Throat

Chemical functional group, PO4-, a component of phospholipids and nucleic acids (including ATP).

An amphipathic lipid molecule containing a phosphate head (polar) and two fatty acid tails (non-polar). The major molecule comprising plasma membranes.

addition of one or more phosphate groups to an organic compound

Receptor cell specialized to respond to light stimuli.

Thin, innermost membrane of the meninges that directly covers the surface of the CNS.

Endocytosis of fluid.

Bean-sized organ suspended from the hypothalamus that produces, stores, and secretes hormones in response to hypothalamic stimulation (also called hypophysis).

(In anatomy) imaginary two-dimensional surface that passes through the body.

An extracellular fluid, the fluid component of blood.

Differentiated B cell that is actively secreting antibody.

Serous membrane that lines the pleural cavity and covers the lungs.

The space between the visceral and parietal pleurae.

Substance that acts as a lubricant for the visceral and parietal layers of the pleura during the movement of breathing.

Molecule with regions that have opposite charges resulting from uneven numbers of electrons in the nuclei of the atoms participating in the covalent bond.

Information flow in one direction.

Thumb

A complex molecule formed of many (up to a thousand or more) monosaccharides; e.g. glycogen, starches, and cellulose.

Portion of the brainstem connecting the medulla oblongata with the midbrain. Serves as a connection to cerebellum, as well as functions including sleep cycles and the origin of some cranial nerves.

Back of the knee.

Mechanism that intensifies a change in the body’s physiological condition in response to a stimulus.

Describes the back or direction toward the back of the body; also referred to as dorsal.

Gray matter region of the spinal cord in which sensory input arrives, sometimes referred to as the dorsal horn.

Axon from a ganglionic neuron in the autonomic nervous system that projects to and synapses with the target effector; sometimes referred to as a postganglionic neuron.

Stored energy matter possesses because of the positioning or structure of its components.

Axon from a central neuron in the autonomic nervous system that projects to and synapses with a ganglionic neuron; sometimes referred to as a preganglionic neuron.

Active transport using carrier proteins that use ATP (powered by the energy obtained through phosphorylation by ATP).

In cells, an extension of a cell body; in the case of neurons, this includes the axon and dendrites.

Face down position.

Sense of position and movement of the body.

Receptor cell that senses changes in the position and kinesthetic aspects of the body.

Receptor cell that senses changes in the position and kinesthetic aspects of the body.

Class of organic compounds that are composed of many amino acids linked together by peptide bonds.

A heavy subatomic particle having a positive charge and found in the atom’s nucleus.

Describes a position in a limb that is nearer to the point of attachment or the trunk of the body.

Tissue that consists of a single layer of irregularly shaped and sized cells that give the appearance of multiple layers; found in ducts of certain glands and the upper respiratory tract.

Four muscles, that extend and stabilize the knee.

Protein molecule that contains a binding site for another specific molecule (called a ligand).

Cell that transduces environmental stimuli into neural signals.

endocytosis of ligands attached to membrane-bound receptors

Circuit of a reflex that involves a sensory input and motor output, or an afferent branch and an efferent branch, and an integrating center to connect the two branches.

Time after the initiation of an action potential when another action potential cannot be generated.

Return of the membrane potential to its normally negative voltage at the end of the action potential.

The difference in voltage measured across a cell membrane under steady-state conditions, typically -70 mV.

Fine fibrous protein, made of collagen subunits, which cross-link to form supporting “nets” within connective tissue.

Diffuse region of gray matter throughout the brain stem that regulates sleep, wakefulness, and states of consciousness.

Matrix containing collagen and elastin secreted by connective tissue; a component of the basement membrane.

Ribose-containing nucleic acid that helps manifest the genetic code as protein.

Cellular organelle that functions in protein synthesis.

Membrane that marks the end of the scala tympani.

Structure of the inner ear responsible for transducing linear acceleration in the vertical plane.

Region of the sacrum, bone forming the back part of the pelvic cavity.

Two-dimensional, vertical plane that divides the body or organ into right and left sides.

Quick propagation of the action potential along a myelinated axon owing to voltage-gated Na+ channels being present only at the nodes of Ranvier.

Portion of the cochlea that extends from the apex to the round window.

Portion of the cochlea that extends from the oval window to the apex.

Glial cell type in the PNS that provides the myelin insulation for axons in nerves.

Active transport using pumps (carrier proteins) that are powered by the potential energy of a concentration gradient (usually of H+ or Na+).

Feature of any barrier that allows certain substances to cross but excludes others.

Structures within the inner ear responsible for transducing rotational movement information.

Part of the membranous labyrinth contained in the semicircular canals.

A particular system for interpreting and perceiving environmental stimuli by the nervous system.

Membrane that covers organs and reduces friction; also referred to as serosa.

(In physiology) ideal value for a physiological parameter; the level or small range within which a physiological parameter such as blood pressure is stable and optimally healthful, that is, within its parameters of homeostasis.

Tissue that consists of a single layer of column-like cells; promotes secretion and absorption in tissues and organs.

Tissue that consists of a single layer of cube-shaped cells; promotes secretion and absorption in ducts and tubules.

Tissue that consists of a single layer of flat scale-like cells; promotes diffusion and filtration across surface.

Usually attached to bone, under voluntary control, each cell is a fiber that is multinucleated and striated.

Under involuntary control, moves internal organs, cells contain a single nucleus, are spindle-shaped, and do not appear striated; each cell is a fibre

Component of a solution, the substance dissolved in a solvent.

In chemistry, a homogeneous liquid mixture in which a solute is dissolved into molecules within a solvent.

Component of a solution, the substance that dissolves the solute.

In neurons, that portion of the cell that contains the nucleus; the cell body, as opposed to the cell processes (axons and dendrites).

A body cell, excluding germ cells. Normally diploid, each cell containing a complete set of genes.

Functional division of the nervous system that is concerned with conscious perception, voluntary movement, and skeletal muscle reflexes.

Sense of touch.

Any sensory system associated with a specific organ structure, namely smell, taste, sight, hearing, and balance.

Division of the dorsal cavity that houses the spinal cord; also referred to as vertebral cavity.

Location of neuronal cell bodies that transmit auditory information along the eighth cranial nerve.

Paired nerves that carry both autonomic and sensory fibres to the internal organs.

(Also, cancellous bone) trabeculated osseous tissue that supports shifts in weight distribution.

Modality of balance relating to position of the head with respect to gravity ("which way is up" and linear acceleration.

Cell that is oligo-, multi-, or pleuripotent that has the ability to produce additional stem cells rather than becoming further specialized.

Array of apical membrane extensions in a hair cell that transduce movements when they are bent.

(Also, sterol) lipid compound composed of four hydrocarbon rings bonded to a variety of other atoms and molecules; not to be confused with anabolic steroids, a synthetic supplement

Tissue that consists of two or more layers of column-like cells, contains glands and is found in some ducts.

Tissue that consists of two or more layers of cube-shaped cells, found in some ducts.

Tissue that consists of multiple layers of cells with the most apical being flat scale-like cells; protects surfaces from abrasion.

Deepest layer of the epidermis, made of epidermal stem cells.

(in physiology) Any stimulus that causes an imbalance in the internal environment.

Alignment of parallel actin and myosin filaments which form a banded pattern.

Space between the arachnoid mater and pia mater that contains CSF and the fibrous connections of the arachnoid trabeculae.

Nucleus within the basal nuclei that is part of the indirect pathway.

Groove formed by convolutions in the surface of the cerebral cortex.

Describes a position closer to the surface of the body.

Describes a position above or higher than another part of the body proper; also referred to as cranial.

Half of the midbrain tectum that is responsible for aligning visual, auditory, and somatosensory spatial perceptions.

Face up.

Series of ganglia adjacent to the vertebral column that receive input from central sympathetic neurons.

Branch of the autonomic nervous system associated with emergency systems ("fight of flight").

Narrow junction across which a chemical signal passes from neuron to the next, initiating a new electrical signal in the target cell.

Small gap between cells in a chemical synapse where neurotransmitter diffuses from the presynaptic element to the postsynaptic element.

Swelling at the end of an axon where neurotransmitter molecules are released onto a target cell across a synapse.

A multinucleate cell formed by the fusion of multiple cells or the division of nuclei.

Thick, lubricating fluid that fills the interior of a synovial joint.

Structures within a papilla on the tongue that contain gustatory receptor cells.

Component of the organ of Corti that lays over the hair cells, into which the stereocilia are embedded.

Paired bones that form the lateral, inferior portions of the skull, with squamous, mastoid, and petrous portions.

Major region of the diencephalon that is responsible for relaying information between the cerebrum and the hindbrain, spinal cord, and periphery.

Sensory receptor specialized for temperature stimuli.

Portion of the ventricular system that is in the region of the diencephalon.

Mid-back, where ribs attach to vertebrae.

Division of the anterior (ventral) cavity that houses the heart, lungs, esophagus, and trachea.

Alternate name for the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system that is based on the anatomical location of central neurons in the lateral horn of the thoracic and upper lumbar spinal cord.

Group of many similar cells (though sometimes composed of a few related types) that work together to perform a specific function.

Bundle of axons in the central nervous system having the same function and point of origin

Process of changing an environmental stimulus into the electrochemical signals of the nervous system.

Two-dimensional, horizontal plane that divides the body or organ into superior and inferior portions.

Three-headed muscle that extends the forearm.

Fourth cranial nerve; responsible for contraction of one of the extraocular muscles.

Ear drum.

central abdominopelvic region including the belly button.

(Also, fallopian tube or oviduct) duct that facilitates transport of an ovulated oocyte to the uterus.

Structure of the inner ear responsible for transducing linear acceleration in the horizontal plane.

Tenth cranial nerve; responsible for the autonomic control of organs in the thoracic and upper abdominal cavities.

Outermost electron shell of an atom.

Relating to circulation of blood.

Opening up, or increasing interior (lumen) diameter of a blood vessel.

Larger body cavity located anterior to the posterior (dorsal) body cavity; includes the serous membrane-lined pleural cavities for the lungs, pericardial cavity for the heart, and peritoneal cavity for the abdominal and pelvic organs; also referred to as anterior body cavity.

Remnants of the hollow center of the neural tube that are spaces for cerebrospinal fluid to circulate through the brain.

Membrane-bound structure that contains materials within or outside of the cell.

Location of neuronal cell bodies that transmit equilibrium information along the eighth cranial nerve.

Membrane separating the cochlear duct from the scala vestibuli.

In the ear, the portion of the inner ear responsible for the sense of equilibrium.

Eighth cranial nerve; responsible for the sensations of hearing and balance.

Facing the organs (opposite of parietal).

Thick consistency between solid and liquid.

Organic compound required by the body to perform biochemical reactions like metabolism and bone, cell, and tissue growth.

Ion channel that opens because of a change in the charge distributed across the membrane where it is located.

Regions of the nervous system containing mostly myelinated axons, making the tissue appear white because of the high lipid content of myelin.