Neurons and Neuroglia

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the structure and function of neurons and neuroglia as discussed in the lecture.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Includes the brain and spinal cord; processes sensory input and coordinates motor output.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

All nerves outside the CNS; connects the CNS to the body divided into sensory and motor pathways.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

Part of PNS controlling involuntary functions; subdivided into sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest).

Neurons

Basic functional units of the nervous system specialized for transmitting electrical signals.

Dendrites

Branches of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons.

Soma (Cell Body)

Control center of the neuron containing nucleus and organelles.

Axon

Cylindrical nerve fiber that conducts electrical impulses away from the soma.

Myelin Sheath

Protective insulating layer surrounding the axon, essential for efficient signal transmission.

Neuroglia

Supportive cells in the nervous system that protect neurons and aid in their function.

Oligodendrocyte

Neuroglia that forms myelin sheaths in the CNS.

Schwann Cell

Neuroglia that envelopes nerve fibers in the PNS and produces myelin sheaths.

Astrocytes

Most abundant neuroglia; support neurons and maintain blood-brain barrier.

Microglia

Immune cells of the CNS that respond to debris and damage.

Signal Transmission

The process where neurons receive, integrate, and conduct signals to communicate.

Action Potential

An electrical impulse that travels down the axon, initiated at the axon hillock.

Synaptic Knob

End of the axon where neurotransmitters are released to communicate with other cells.

Neurotransmitter

Chemicals released at the synapse that transmit signals to target cells.