Neuron Cell Structure Flashcards
Neurons
Carry information/messages in the form of an electrical impulse to the appropriate part of the nervous system. They also assist the brain in interpreting messages that they have received to enable a motor response.
Neural messages
Within neurons: electrical impulse
Between neurons: chemical messages (neurotransmitters)
Dendrites
Receive input from other neurons.
Cell body/Soma
Includes a nucleus which controls the neuron.
Axon
Transmits information to other neurons.
Myelin Sheath
‘Fatty covering’ that insulates the axon from chemical and physical stimuli that might interfere with the transmission of nerve impulses.
Terminal Buttons
Send signals from a neutron to adjacent cells (releases neurotransmitters).
Synapse
The space between neurons where transmission occurs
Axon Terminals
Branch-like extensions from the axon that carries messages to terminal buttons.
Sensory/Afferent Neurons
Transmit information from sensory cells in the body (called receptors) to the brain. Their main role is to sense the external world and monitor changes within our body.
Motor/Efferent Neurons
Carry messages from the CNS to the cells in skeletal muscles, organs or glands to stimulate activity. Located in the lower brain stem and spinal cord. All outgoing neural information must pass through them to reach the muscles.
Interneurons
Also called association or connecting neurons. Act as a link between sensory and motor neurons, relaying information from one neuron to another. Enable simple reflexes in the spinal cord as well as complicated functions in the brain.
Astrocytes
Provide physical and nutritional support for CNS neurons.
Microglia
The immune cells of the CNS. They fight infection and respond to injury.
Oligodendroglia
Produce myelin sheath of neurons in the CNS.
