What is a "nerve"?

A nerve is a bundle of fibers that transmits information between the brain and spinal cord and the rest of the body. Nerves are part of the peripheral nervous system, which includes all the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. They consist of sensory fibers that transmit information about external stimuli, such as touch, pain, and temperature, and motor fibers that control muscle movement and glandular secretion. Nerves are essential for communication between the brain and the body and are responsible for the regulation of many bodily functions. Damage to nerves can cause sensory and motor dysfunction, leading to conditions such as paralysis, pain, and numbness.