Brain Cells Flashcards
Neuron
Brain Cells which sense changes in the environment, communicate this to other neurons and cells and finally decides on the bodies response
Glial Cell
Supporting brain cells which insulate and support Neurons
Histology
The Study of tissues and cells via a microscope
Nissl Stain
Dye used to stain the cell body of Neurons
cytoarchitecture
the arrangement of neurons all over the brain
FormalAldehyde
Chemical compounds with formula H−CHO, when used on a brain it will harden it, making it easier to study via microscope
Microtome
Device used to slice brain very thinly
Golgi Stain
Staining method that completely stains a small fraction of neurons allowing the whole cell to be examined
soma
Also called cell body and Perikaryon.
20 micrometers in diameter
filled with cytosol and organelles
Neuron Doctrine
neurons communicate by contact not continuity. Thus they are not an exception to cell theory, this was proven by studies with an electron microscope
Nucleus
Location of DNA. Gene expression influenced by transcription factors leading to many different forms of cells
Transcription and Translation
Process of converting genetic material into functional proteins
Genome
Entire length of DNA
Genetic Engineering
Artificially mutating DNA to observe it’s effects on a test subject
Knock Out Mice
A specific gene is removed from the genome of these mice so they can study the effect of this gene. Often used to study progression of diseases
transgenic mice
New genes are introduced and overexpressed
Knock In mice
A specific gene is implanted into the genome of these mice so they can study the effect of this gene. Often used to study progression of diseases
Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum
RER
Makes proteins, thus very important for brain function and are very numerous in neurons.
Also make proteins for external use
Free ribosomes
Sites of protein synthesis, especially for proteins that will be used internally
Polyribosomes
Strings of free ribosomes producing the same proteins
Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum
SER
regulates internal cell condition (eg Ca2+ ion levels)
Golgi Apparatus
Sorts proteins depending on end purpose
Mitochondrion
Convert ADP to ATP via cellular respiration
1 micrometer
super super important for neurons
Adenosine Triphosphate
ATP
energy currency within cells