Cellular Properties and Communication within the Nervous System

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to cellular properties and communication within the nervous system.

Neuron

A nerve cell; the basic component of the nervous system.

Multipolar Neuron

The most common type of neuron found in vertebrates, having several dendrites and one axon.

Bipolar Neuron

A type of neuron most commonly found in the eye and nose, with one axon and one dendrite.

Pseudounipolar Neuron

A sensory neuron that has a single process that bifurcates into two branches.

Sensory Neurons

Afferent neurons that send information to the central nervous system (CNS).

Motor Neurons

Efferent neurons that send information from the CNS to muscles; include alpha and gamma motor neurons.

Interneurons

Specialized neurons located in the brain and spinal cord, acting as connections between sensory and motor neurons.

Myelination

The process of insulating axons with myelin, which increases the speed of signal transmission.

Synapse

The junction between two neurons where communication occurs; can be electrical or chemical.

Inhibitory Synapse

Synapse that decreases the chances of an action potential occurring in the postsynaptic neuron.

Excitatory Synapse

Synapse that increases the chances of an action potential occurring in the postsynaptic neuron.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

An excitatory neurotransmitter primarily found in the peripheral nervous system.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)

An inhibitory neurotransmitter primarily found in the central nervous system.

Dopamine (DA)

A neurotransmitter that has both excitatory and inhibitory effects in the CNS.

Agonists

Drugs that facilitate neurotransmitter activity.

Antagonists

Drugs that inhibit neurotransmitter activity.

Myasthenia Gravis

An autoimmune disorder that affects neural communication, causing muscle weakness.

Alzheimer’s Disease

A neurodegenerative disorder associated with impaired neurotransmitter activity and cognitive decline.