Lecture 19: Nervous System 1

Question 1

What are the 2 types of nervous system cells?

Answer 1

1. Nerve cells (neurons)- signalling cells
2. Glial cells (glia)-supporting cells
   - ependymal cells
   - microglia
   - astrocytes
   - oligodendrocytes
   - Schwann cells

Question 2

Name the principle components of a neuron and briefly describe the main function of each part

Answer 2

Dendrites: receives input from other neurons
Soma (cell body): housekeeping functions
-nucleus to store genetic material
-endoplasmic reticulum to synthesis proteins
-mitochondria to produce energy
Axon hillock: synaptic integration, action potential triggering
Axon: conveys electrical output signals
Axon terminal: specialised to release transmitter (chemical) to signal to next cell in pathway

Question 3

What are the glial cells all about?

Answer 3

• Glia make up more than 90% of cells in the vertebrates CNS
• physically support neurons and perform many housekeeping functions
• cannot fire action potentials
• may influence synaptic transmission

Question 4

What are the 5 types of glial cells and their functions

Answer 4

1. Schwann cells: form myelin around the PNS
2. Oligodendrocytes: form myelin around the CNS
3. Astrocytes: transport nutrients to neurons, and form the blood brain barrier
4. Microglia: remove debris/ dead cells from CNS
5. Ependymal cells: line fluid filled cavities in the CNS
   Refer to PowerPoint for pictures

Question 5

Outline evolutionary changes in the nervous system

Answer 5

Developed:
-afferent, efferent divisions
-emergence of ganglia (acting as integration centres)
-cephalisation increase with increasing nervous system complexity
Cephalisation= tendency for integration centres and sense organs to be clustered at anterior end.

Question 6

What are the 7 regions of the vertebrate central nervous system?

Answer 6

Spinal cord
Cerebellum
Medulla
Pons
Midbrain
Diencephalon (thalamus and hypothalamus) 
Cerebrum

Question 7

What is the functions of the medulla oblongata, pons and midbrain

Answer 7

Medulla: regulation of blood pressure, digestion, breathing
Pons: relays information between cerebellum and cortex, regulated breathing and sleep
Midbrain: controls sensory functions (visual, auditory, touch)

Question 8

Know the cranial nerves and if they are motor or sensory

Answer 8

Do it again!

Question 9

What is the cerebrum involved in?

Answer 9

Cerebral cortex: information processing 
Deeper structures:
Basal ganglia: fine movement control
Amygdala: social behaviour and emotion 
Hippocampus: memory