Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main function of oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system (CNS)?

Accepted Answer

They produce the myelin sheath around CNS axons.

Question 2

A patient presents with muscle weakness and slowed nerve conduction. An MRI reveals plaques in the CNS. Which disease is most likely responsible, and what is the underlying mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Multiple sclerosis; immune-mediated destruction of myelin sheaths.

Question 3

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the difference between the somatic and autonomic nervous systems?

Accepted Answer

The somatic nervous system has a single motor neuron pathway, while the autonomic nervous system typically has a two-neuron pathway.

Question 4

Which glial cell is primarily responsible for maintaining the blood-brain barrier?

Accepted Answer

Astrocytes

Question 5

A patient is exposed to Clostridium tetani. Which neurotransmitter(s) are affected, and what is the resulting clinical presentation?

Accepted Answer

GABA and glycine release is inhibited, resulting in spastic paralysis.

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) through the brain's ventricular system?

Accepted Answer

Lateral ventricles → Foramen of Monro → Third ventricle → Cerebral aqueduct → Fourth ventricle → Median and lateral apertures

Question 7

Which of the following is a correct pairing of cranial nerve and its primary function?

Accepted Answer

Facial nerve – taste from anterior 2/3 of tongue

Question 8

A patient with a herniated disc at the L4-L5 level is most likely to experience which of the following symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Weakness or numbness in the lower limb due to compression of spinal nerve roots

Question 9

Which of the following best explains why bacterial meningitis is more difficult to treat than other infections?

Accepted Answer

The blood-brain barrier restricts the passage of many antibiotics into the CNS.

Question 10

Which of the following is the correct order of the meninges from innermost to outermost?

Accepted Answer

Pia mater → Arachnoid mater → Dura mater

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the role of Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?

Accepted Answer

They produce myelin sheaths around axons in the PNS.

Question 12

A patient is prescribed an SSRI for depression. What is the mechanism of action of this drug at the synapse?

Accepted Answer

It blocks the reuptake of serotonin, increasing its concentration in the synaptic cleft.

Question 13

Which of the following is a function of the cerebellum?

Accepted Answer

Balance, muscle coordination, and timekeeping

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the effect of the sympathetic nervous system on the body during a 'fight or flight' response?

Accepted Answer

Increased heart rate, vasodilation to skeletal muscles, and pupil dilation

Question 15

Which of the following is the correct equation for the calculation of the rate of diffusion of a neurotransmitter across the synaptic cleft, according to Fick's law?

Accepted Answer

$$J = -D \frac{dC}{dx}$$

Question 16

Which structure connects the left and right cerebral hemispheres and is composed of white matter?

Accepted Answer

Corpus callosum

Question 17

A patient with damage to the anterior horn of the spinal cord would most likely experience which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Loss of motor function

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the function of microglia in the CNS?

Accepted Answer

Phagocytosis of pathogens and debris

Question 19

Which of the following is a real-life consequence of hydrocephalus if left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Increased intracranial pressure leading to brain damage

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the role of the thalamus in the brain?

Accepted Answer

It is the main relay center for sensory information.

Study Guide: Nervous System Structure and Function (A&P College Level)

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards