Chapter 3: Neurophysiology Flashcards
GLIA AND NEURONS
GLIA AND NEURONS
What two types of cells is the nervous system made up of?
Glia and Neurons
Where does the name glia come from?
Come from Greek for glue.
What are glia?
Cells in the nervous system that support the activities of neurons.
How are glia cells categorized?
By size.
What are the largest and smallest varieties of glia cells?
Macro-glia are the largest varieties.
Micro glia are the smallest.
What are the three primary types of macro glia?
Astrocytes.
Oligodendrocytes.
Schwann cells.
What are the general purposes of the three primary categories?
The Astrocytes provide a variety of support functions to neurons. Whereas the Oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells supply myelin covering that insulates axon fibers.
Where do astrocytes get their name from?
Their starlike shape.
What are the most common type of glia in the brain?
Astrocytes.
