4.1 Cells of the Nervous System Diagram | Quizlet

Neuron Structure

TERM

Cell Body

DEFINITION

Also called the soma of the nerve cell.

TERM

Axon Hillock

DEFINITION

Integrates the incoming signals.

TERM

Dendrites

DEFINITION

Receive incoming messages from other cells.

TERM

Schwann Cells in the PNS or Oligodendrocytes in the CNS

DEFINITION

Cells that produce myelin to prevent the loss of signals and also speed their transmission.

COPS

Mnemonic for CNS cells myelinated by oligodendrocytes and PNS cells myelinated by Schwann cells.

TERM

Nodes of Ranvier

DEFINITION

Exposed areas of the axon membrane.

Saltatory Conduction

Rapid transmission of a neural impulse's action potential results from the signal jumping from node to node and skipping the myelinated portions of the axon.

TERM

Myelin Sheath

DEFINITION

Maintains and speeds up the electrical signal.

TERM

Axon

DEFINITION

A long appendage that terminates in close proximity to a target structure.

TERM

Axon Terminals

DEFINITION

The ends of the axon which releases neurotransmitters to the adjacent dendrites.

Synaptic Cleft

The space between the neurons into which the terminal portion of the axon releases neurotransmitters, which bind to the dendrites of the postsynaptic neuron.

Synaptic Knob

The nerve terminal's structure is enlarged and flattened to maximize neurotransmission to the next neuron.

Tracts

Formed by axons bundled together in the central nervous system.

Nucleus

A collection of cell bodies in the central nervous system.

Ganglion

A collection of cell bodies in the peripheral nervous system.

Glial Cells

Support and myelinate neurons in the nervous system.

Astrocytes

Nourish neurons and form the blood-brain barrier, which controls the transmission of solutes from the bloodstream into nervous tissue.

Ependymal Cells

Line the ventricles of the brain and produce cerebrospinal fluid.

Microglia

Phagocytic cells that ingest and break down waste products and pathogens in the central nervous system.

Schwann Cells

Produce myelin around the axons in the peripheral nervous system.

Oligodendrocytes

Produce myelin around the axons in the central nervous system.