2: Introduction to the nervous system

Question 1

What are the two main types of cells

Answer 1

• Neurones

- Glia

Question 2

What is the main role of neurons

Answer 2

Communication

Question 3

What is the main role of glia

Answer 3

Supporting the neurons

Question 4

What are some examples of neurons?

Answer 4

• Motor neurons
• Sensory neurons
• Cortical
• Cerebellar
• Basal ganglia etc

Question 5

What are some examples of glia

Answer 5

• Astrocytes
• Microglia
• Ependymal cells
• Oligodendrocytes
• Schwann cells

Question 6

Describe the features of neurons

Answer 6

• Carry electrical signals between brain area
• Electrically excitable
• Must have an input zone (dendrites) and an output zone (axon)
• Axons can be incredibly long so need to have specialisations to speed up conductions

Question 7

What is a synapse

Answer 7

The junction between nerve cells where a nerve impulse is transferred from one neuron to another

Question 8

What are the properties of electrical synapses?

Answer 8

• Communication is very fast

- Relies upon electrical connection

Question 9

What are the properties of chemical synapses?

Answer 9

• Communication is slower
• Relies upon chemical release of neurotransmitter that crosses the gap
• Complex series of events
• Neurotransmitter packaged in vesicles
• Synapse strength can be modified