The Neuron Flashcards
What two different types of cells is the Nervous System made up of?
Glial cells (neurological cells) - they’re nonconducting, and they help with structural support and metabolism of nerve cells
Neurons - the functional unit of the nervous system- they respond to stimuli to conduct electrochemical signals and release chemicals needed for various body process
Neurons are individual cells what we call “nerves” are usually bundles of neurons, actually bundles of axons bound
together by connective tissue
Three types of neurons
Sensory Neurons -
Relays information about the enviro. to the CNS for processing (ie. receptors in the eyes respond to light)
Interneurons -
Link neurons within the body (found predominantly in the Brain and Spinal Cord) integrate and interpret sensory info
Motor Neurons -
Replay info to the effectors. Muscles and bonds are classified as effectors as they cause things to happen
What is a Myelin Sheath?
The fatty covering which surrounds many neurons; insulates the axon and increases the speed of nerve transmissions (white matter)
It’s formed of Schwann Cells which wrap around the axon. They are a type of Glial Cell
What are the Nodes of Ranvier?
The spaces between adjoining Schwann Cells
How does an impulse work on a Myelinated neuron?
It won’t go the entire length of the neuron, instead it will leap-frog ahead from one NoR to another thus increasing the speed of transmission - this is called Saltatory Conduction
What are the Dendrites?
Left of cell, they receive impulses and takes then to the cell body
What is the Axon?
Extension of cell body that carries impulses away from the body
