[01] Neurons and Neuroglia Flashcards
What are the two main types of cells in the nervous system?
- Neurons
- Neuroglia
What is a Neuron?
A nerve cell responsible for transmitting electrical impulses
What is a Neuroglia?
Supportive cells in the nervous system that do not transmit impulses
What are the three parts of a neuron?
- Cell body
- Dendrites
- Axon
What is the function of the cell body in a neuron?
It contains the nucleus and organelles
What is the function of dendrites in a neuron?
They receive signals from other neurons and transmit them towards the cell body
What is the function of an axon in a neuron?
It conducts impulses away from the cell body
What is the myelin sheath?
A fatty substance that surrounds and insulates the axon
What is the function of the myelin sheath?
It speeds up the transmission of electrical impulses along the axon
What are the four main types of neuroglia in the central nervous system?
- Astrocytes
- Oligodendrocytes
- Microglia
- Ependymal cells
What is the role of Astrocytes?
They provide physical and nutritional support for neurons
What is the role of Oligodendrocytes?
They form the myelin sheath in the central nervous system
What is the role of Microglia?
They are the immune cells of the central nervous system
What is the role of Ependymal cells?
They line the cavities of the brain and spinal cord and help circulate cerebrospinal fluid
What are the two main types of neuroglia in the peripheral nervous system?
- Schwann cells
- Satellite cells
