What does the peripheral nervous system consist of?

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is primarily composed of cranial and spinal nerves, which serve as the communication lines between the central nervous system (CNS) and the rest of the body. The PNS is essential for transmitting sensory information from the body to the brain and relaying motor commands from the brain to the muscles. This system includes the somatic nervous system, which controls voluntary movements, and the autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary bodily functions.

The inclusion of cranial and spinal nerves means that the PNS not only connects the limbs and organs to the central nervous system but also encompasses various ganglia and nerve fibers that facilitate communication and coordination throughout the body. Understanding the PNS is crucial in the study of how the body responds to stimuli and maintains homeostasis.