Toxicology of the Nervous System

These flashcards cover key concepts related to toxicology of the nervous system, including mechanisms of neurotoxicity, neuronal injury types, and involved cellular components.

Blood-brain barrier (BBB)

A physical and biochemical barrier that blocks paracellular passage of substances into the CNS, ensuring selective permeability.

Neurotoxicity

The detrimental effects of toxic substances on nerve cells, potentially leading to dysfunction or death.

Neuronal injury

Damage to neurons that can lead to dysfunction or cell death, influenced by toxicants and environmental factors.

Axonopathy

Injury to the axon of a neuron, which may lead to degeneration but has potential for regrowth from the surviving soma.

Neuronopathy

Death of the neuron cell body resulting in a total loss of the neuron and its processes, with no possibility for regeneration.

Myelinopathies

Disorders associated with damage to the myelin sheath, affecting nerve signal transmission.

Neurotransmitter

Chemical messengers released by neurons at synapses, affecting receptor cells and modulating various physiological functions.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death that occurs as a response to stress or damage, often triggered by neurotoxicants.

Astrocytes

Star-shaped glial cells in the CNS that regulate ion balance and neurotransmitter levels, providing metabolic support to neurons.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The division of the nervous system consisting of nerves and ganglia outside the brain and spinal cord, with regenerative capacity for axons.

CNS Excitotoxicity

Damage caused to neurons by excessive stimulation by neurotransmitters such as glutamate.

Environmental neurotoxicants

Substances in the environment, like heavy metals and pesticides, that can damage the nervous system and lead to neurodegenerative diseases.