Describe The Neuron And Its Important Structural Components Flashcards
What does the nervous tissue consist of?
It consists of masses of neurons (nerve cells).
FACT CARD:
They are highly cellular. In the Central Nervous System cells are densely packed and interwined.
What are neurons?
Neurons have specialised functions and are the structural and functional units of the nervous system.
How long do neurons survive?
There are billions of neurons in the nervous system and will function for a persons lifetime as long as they receive sufficient O2, nutrients or are not damaged.
What does the term amitotic mean in terms of neurons?
It means that they can not divide so can not be replaced if damaged.
Which neuron cells can be replaced?
Those in the olfactory epithelium of the nose and certain regions of the hippocampus in the brain which involves the memories.
What are nerve impulses?
Nerve impulses are electrochemical charges transmitted by neurons to other neurons.
Describe the appearance of a neuron?
There is usually a rounded cell body with extensions called dendrites and axons.
What are dendrites?
These are extensions from the neuron that receives electrochemical messages.
What is an axon?
An axon are extensions from the neuron that send electrochemical messages. There is usually only one axon.
What do neurons require to function?
Neurons have a high metabolic rate and require abundant amounts of oxygen and nutrients usually in the form of glucose.
What do bundles of axons make up?
They make up nerves.
How long can neurons survive if there is no oxygenation?
They will only survive for a few minutes.
Are all neurons similar in shape, size and structure?
Whilst the structure of neurons is very similar their size and shape differ.
What is the name given to the cell body?
The cell body is called the soma.
Label Neuron
