title: Nervous system: part 3.
abstract: This article, which forms part of the life sciences series and is the last of three articles on the nervous system, explores the major divisions of the peripheral nervous system. Motor and sensory nerves will be described before a more detailed examination of the cranial and spinal nerves is provided. The autonomic nervous system will be explored, including the diverse roles of the parasympathetic and sympathetic divisions. The role of spinal reflexes in maintaining homeostasis is identified. Motor neurone disease will be discussed briefly as an example of a disorder of the peripheral nervous system.
authors.affiliation: School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland.
authors.forename: Alistair
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Farley
authors.forename: Ella
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: McLafferty
authors.forename: Carolyn
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Johnstone
authors.forename: Charles
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Hendry
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D016472:Motor Neuron Disease / Q000503:physiopathology; D009420:Nervous System / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D009424:Nervous System Physiological Phenomena; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000502:physiology; D006113:United Kingdom
chemical_list: D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents