Anatomy slide set 1

Flashcards created to help students understand essential concepts related to the organization and function of nervous tissue.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The part of the nervous system that consists of the brain and spinal cord and serves as the integration and control center.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The portion of the nervous system outside the CNS, consisting mainly of nerves that extend from the brain and spinal cord.

Afferent Neurons

Neurons that transmit action potentials toward the CNS (sensory neurons).

Efferent Neurons

Neurons that transmit action potentials away from the CNS to effectors (motor neurons).

Myelin Sheath

An insulating layer formed by glial cells that surrounds axons, increasing the speed of action potentials.

Gray Matter

Regions of the central nervous system that contain unmyelinated axons, cell bodies, and dendrites, primarily responsible for integrative functions.

White Matter

Regions of the central nervous system that contain myelinated axons, facilitating the propagation of action potentials.

Action Potential

A rapid rise and fall in membrane potential that transmits signals along neurons.

Neurotransmitter

Chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.

Homeostasis

The process by which biological systems maintain stability while adjusting to conditions that are optimal for survival.

Synapse

The junction between two neurons, where neurotransmitters are released to propagate signals.

Resting Membrane Potential

The electrical potential across the plasma membrane of a neuron in its resting state, typically around -70 mV.

Glial Cells

Supportive cells in the nervous system that perform various functions, including maintaining homeostasis and providing support and protection.

Sodium-Potassium Pump

A membrane protein that uses ATP to transport sodium out of and potassium into the cell, maintaining the concentration gradient essential for resting membrane potential.

Depolarization

A change in membrane potential that makes the inside of the cell more positive, often leading to the generation of an action potential.

Hyperpolarization

A change in membrane potential that makes the inside of the cell more negative, moving further from the threshold for action potential generation.

Neurons

Electrically excitable cells of the nervous system that transmit signals through action potentials.

Glial Cells of the CNS: Astrocytes

Star-shaped glial cells that regulate blood-brain barrier, fluid composition, and aid in neuron repair.

Coordination of Nervous System Functions

Receiving sensory input, integrating information, generating responses, and establishing mental activity.

Temporal Summation

The cumulative effect of neurotransmitter release at the synapse over time, which can lead to reaching the threshold for action potential generation.

Spatial Summation

The cumulative effect of neurotransmitter release at different synapses simultaneously on a postsynaptic neuron.

Facilitation

A process where repeated stimulation of a neuron increases its responsiveness.