Introduction to Neuro Flashcards
Levels of organisation within the nervous system •Building blocks of the nervous system •Communication within the nervous system •Simple neural circuitry
What is a neuron?
An electrically excitable cell that transmits signals throughout the body.
What makes up a neuron?
-Dendrites
- Nucleus
- Cell body
- Axon
- Branches of axon
-Axon terminals
What are neuronal connections?
The pathways that connect one part of the nervous system to another using bundles of axons using tracts.
What are glia?
- “Glue” - supports and hold the nervous system together.
What is the function of microglia?
Remove debris from dead or degenerating glia
What is the function of astrocytes?
Regulate the chemical content of the extracellular space, i.e., removing unwanted neurotransmitter from synaptic cleft.
What are oligodendrocytes?
Myelinating glia (Schwann cells in PNS) that provide layers of membrane that insulate axons in the brain.
What is the nervous system?
The system that detects changes to the internal and external environment and drives appropriate responses in muscles/glands/organs.
What is the Nervous system divided into?
-CNS - Brain and spinal cord
-PNS- Everything outside brain and spinal cord.
What is the role of the somatic nervous system?
- Voluntary control of the peripheral motor system
- Innervates and commands skeletal muscle fibres
What is the role of the autonomic nervous system?
- Controls involuntary processes
- Maintains homeostasis of the internal environment
- Regulates internal (visceral) organs, smooth muscle and secretory glands
What is the role of the sympathetic nervous system?
- Fight/Flight
- Increases BP
- Decreases digestive function
- Constricts blood vessels and maintains homeostasis
What is the role of the parasympathetic system?
- Exerts opposing effect to sympathetic nervous system and vice versa.
- Rest and Digest
- Decreases BP
- Increases digestive function
What is the role of the enteric nervous system?
- Controls digestion
