L1: Intro to Neuroscience

Question 1

What are the 5 major distinguishing features of advanced nervous system?

Answer 1

1 - cellular specializations
2 - areal specializations
3 - functional cooperation
4 - adaptability
5 - high info storage capacity

Question 2

Name the most basic type of neuron

Answer 2

retinal bipolar cell

Question 3

In terms of morphology, what is the main diff btw retinal bipolar cell and retinal ganglion cell?

Answer 3

retinal ganglion cell has a lot more dendrites so can collect more sensory information

Question 4

Which type of cell is most prevalent in the brain/is the main processing cell through out cortex?

Answer 4

cortical pyramidal cell

Question 5

List the 3 glial (non-neuronal cells)

Answer 5

1- astrocytes: lots of processes to fill in space btw neurons to offer mechanical support; provide metabolic support; contribute to blood-brain barrier; help coordinate nerve pathway development; help with re-growth

2- oligodendrocytes: myelination

3- microglial cells: 10% of brain cells; hematopoietic in origin; can become immune cells

Question 6

What are dendritic spines?

Answer 6

“USB cords”
very plastic b/c constantly being lost & made
storage site for synaptic strength & help transmit electrical signals to cell body

Question 7

What are the 3 major functional classes of neurons? Are they found in both PNS & CNS?

Answer 7

1 - sensory neurons
2 - motor neurons
3 - interneurons (only in CNS)