The central nervous system (CNS) is responsible for coordinating reflexes. Reflexes are involuntary, rapid and predictable responses to stimuli. There are various types of reflexes that occur in the CNS, which are:
1. Spinal Reflexes: These reflexes occur in the spinal cord, and they are the simplest reflexes. For instance, if you accidentally touch a hot stove and immediately pull your hand away, it is a spinal reflex. In spinal reflexes, the sensory neuron which detects the stimulus sends a signal to the motor neuron instantly, which commands the muscle to respond.
2. Cranial Reflexes: These reflexes are managed by the brainstem and are responses to stimuli that come from the head, face and neck area. Some examples of cranial reflexes are blink reflex, gag reflex, and pupillary reflex.
3. Autonomic Reflexes: The autonomic reflexes control the automatic functions of our body, such as breathing, digestion, heart rate and circulation etc. These reflexes operate in response to internal stimuli, and they help to maintain the balance of our body's various systems.
4. Conditioned Reflexes: These reflexes are acquired through experience or repeated stimulus. In other words, they are learned reflexes. An example of conditioned reflexes is salivation when you see your favorite food.
In summary, different types of reflexes in the CNS are managed by various parts of the nervous system, and they all play a crucial role in maintaining our bodily functions and responses to stimuli.