Basic Anatomy and Physiology of the Central Nervous System

The first chapter will discuss basic concepts in the anatomy and physiology of the central nervous system, which are required to understand the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Anatomy of the central nervous system is part of the human anatomy. Knowledge of the anatomy of the central nervous system is necessary to understand the pathogenesis of diseases of the nervous system. The authors will give a brief overview of the central nervous system division, brain anatomy, and its functions. The nervous system controls, coordinates, and regulates the coordinated work of all organ systems and maintains the stability of the composition of its internal environment. The main functional unit of the nervous system is the synapse. We will explore various types of neurons and synaptic connections, as well as their microstructure, and cover the physiology and actions of the main neural pathways, neurotransmitters, and their receptors in the central nervous system. The structure and functioning of the glymphatic system will receive special consideration. This is a system of perivascular tunnels that provide waste processing and are formed by astroglial cells. The authors will also discuss the changes that occur in the central nervous system as consequences of normal ageing.