Unit 1 - How Neurons Work Individually

Aphasia

inability to speak while understanding language

Cell Theory

neurons follow this (contrary to Golgi’s belief).

Soma

cell body containing nucleus and organelles

Dendrites

highly branched structures that receive input (short, spiny, stubby).

Axon

long, smooth structure that sends output

Neurites

collective term for axons and dendrites

Collaterals

axon branches

Cerebral hemispheres

brain regions Flourens studied

Cerebellum

brain region with distinct functions

Brainstem

another distinct brain region

Cortex/Cerebral Cortex

outer layer of brain with laminar structure

Hippocampus

The brain structure shown in examples

Glia

brain cells (not neurons)

Purkinje Cell

Large cerebellar neurons with extensively branched, fan-shaped dendritic trees; involved in motor coordination.

Pyramidal Neuron

Triangle-shaped cell body with apical and basal dendrites; the most common excitatory neuron in the cortex.

Unipolar Neuron

One process from the cell body that branches into two directions, typically sensory neurons.

Bipolar Neuron

Two processes (one dendrite, one axon) extending from opposite ends of cell body; found in retina, olfctory system, and inner ear.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

is the primary command center of the body, consisting of the brain and spinal cord

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

nerves and neurons outside of the brain and spinal cord that connect to the limbs and organs

Neurons

generate and transmit electrical signals & action potentials

Glia

provides support to neurons physically, immunologically, and metabolically. does not conduct action potential

Function of Neurons

processes information, senses environmental changes, communicates changes to other neurons, commands the body’s responses to these sensations

Properties of the Neuron

1. Morphologically heterogeneous in size and shape

2. Conduct bioelectric signals across long distances with no loss of signal strength

3. Possess specific connections with other nerve cells and with muscles and glands

Dendrites

the branches of the neuron that receive input from the neuron, have many receptors for neurotransmitters

Functions of Dendrites

receive inputs from many axons, are able to monitor and evaluate many inputs, signal to noise ratio.

Dendritic Spines

form, enlarge, shrink, and retract throughout life. synaptic pruning in early childhood and in adolescense helps refine connections

Causation of Synaptic Pruning

the alterations in synaptic pruning have been associated with a variety of developmental differences - ex; autism, schizophrenia