Concepts of Neurophysiology

In this second chapter, we introduce the basic anatomy and the neurophysiological mechanisms of the central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous systems, highlighting their pivotal roles in somatosensory perception. The main goal is to provide fundamental knowledge of the nervous system to assist novices in neuroscience in better understanding the subsequent chapter on the neurophysiology of pain. This chapter emphasizes the dynamic interactions that occur, starting with the activation of peripheral receptors and extending to the transmission of somatosensory signals within the central nervous system. This process ultimately leads to communication with various cell types, including glial cells, to orchestrate a neuro-immune response.At its core, this chapter underscores the fundamental knowledge necessary to comprehend the intricate neural networks, from encoding and transmitting sensory signals to evoking the appropriate physiological and psychological responses.