Neuroscience: Types of Neurons and Their Functions

This set of flashcards covers the types of neurons, their structure, functions, and associated disorders.

Sensory Neurons

Neurons that receive signals from sensory organs like the skin, eyes, and ears.

Interneuron

Neurons found in the brain and spinal cord that connect sensory and motor neurons, helping the brain make decisions.

Motor Neurons

Neurons that send signals from the brain to muscles or glands, causing the body to respond.

Reflex Arc

A neural pathway that controls reflex actions without involving the conscious part of the brain.

Parts of a Neuron

Dendrites receive messages; axons send messages away from the cell body.

Myelin Sheath

A covering on the axon that increases the speed of electrical signals.

Action Potential

A quick electrical signal that a neuron uses to send messages down its axon to communicate.

Threshold

The minimum intensity needed to evoke a response in a neuron.

All-or-None Principle

The principle that a neuron fires completely or not at all.

ALS

A disease affecting lower and upper neurons, leading to paralysis and speech impairment.

Multiple Sclerosis

A disease that destroys the myelin sheath in the central nervous system, causing various symptoms.

Myasthenia Gravis

An autoimmune disease that affects receptors and can lead to muscle paralysis.