Nervous system overview

Question 1

What two cell types are present in the nervous system?

Answer 1

Neurones

Glial cells

Question 2

How are neurones organised?

Answer 2

Grey matter (un-myelinated) vs White matter (myelinated)
Nucleii in CNS, Ganglia in PNS
Fibre tracts in CNS, Nerves in PNS

Question 3

Briefly describe an overview of CNS embryology

Answer 3

Surface ectoderm forms the neural tube

The cavity of the neural tube becomes the vesicles (of which there are four)

Question 4

What are ventricles?

Answer 4

Spaces in the brain containing cerebral spinal fluid (CSF)

Question 5

Describe the circulation of CSF

Answer 5

CSF is secreted by the choroid plexus, enters the subarachnoid space, and is absorbed by arachnoid villa

Question 6

What is the main role of the blood brain barrier?

Answer 6

To maintain homeostasis in the brain parenchyma

Question 7

Name the glial cells that are present in the PNS and describe their roles

Answer 7

Schwann cells - myelination

Satellite cells - surround neuronal cell bodies

Question 8

Name the glial cells that are present in the CNS and describe their roles

Answer 8

Astrocytes - have endfeet which surround synapses and capillaries, also help in K+ ion buffering
Oligodendrocytes - myelination
Microglia - phagocytosis and scar tissue formation
Ependymal cells - line the ventricles of the brain