Nervous Tissue, Membranes, and Homeostasis

Vocabulary flashcards covering nervous tissue support cells, epithelial membranes, types of membranes, and homeostasis concepts.

Glial cells (neuroglia)

Supporting cells of nervous tissue that nourish, protect, insulate neurons, phagocytize debris, and aid in communication between cells.

Epithelial membranes

Thin structures made of epithelium and underlying connective tissue that cover body surfaces and line body cavities.

Serous membrane

Membrane that lines body cavities lacking an opening to the outside and secretes serous fluid to lubricate surfaces; composed of parietal and visceral layers.

Parietal membrane

The portion of a serous membrane that lines the wall of a body cavity.

Visceral membrane

The portion of a serous membrane that covers an organ.

Serous fluid

Lubricating fluid secreted by serous membranes to reduce friction between surfaces.

Mucous membrane

Membrane that lines body cavities that open to the outside and secretes mucus.

Cutaneous membrane

The skin; the outer covering of the body.

Synovial membrane

An incomplete lining within the cavities of synovial joints, composed entirely of connective tissue.

Nervous tissue support cells

Glial cells that perform nourishment, protection, insulation, phagocytosis, and communication support for neurons.

Homeostasis

Adaptive responses to stimuli that help cells and tissues maintain a stable internal environment.

Dynamic steady state

Another term for homeostasis; describes a dynamic balance of physiological processes.

Physiologic cell turnover

The process of older cells being eliminated and replaced by newer cells.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death; a normal, regulated process that helps development, aging, and turnover.

Regulatory systems

Body systems that regulate functions to maintain homeostasis; balanced by opposing processes.

Counterregulatory systems

Systems that oppose regulatory actions to restore balance and maintain homeostasis.

Cellular signaling

Communication between cells through signaling molecules that trigger responses in receptor cells.

Receptor cells

Cells equipped with receptors to detect signaling molecules and initiate cellular responses.