Neurobiology and Physiology Notes

A series of flashcards covering key terminology and concepts from neurobiology and physiology topics discussed in the lecture.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

A disease diagnosed by the presence of demyelination plaques, affecting the nervous system.

Action Potential

A temporary change in the membrane potential of a neuron that allows it to propagate an electrical signal along the axon.

Saltatory Conduction

The process by which action potentials jump from one node of Ranvier to the next along myelinated axons.

Demyelination Plaques

The damaged areas of myelin sheaths associated with neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis.

Myelin Sheath

A lipid-rich insulating layer that surrounds the axons of many nerve cells, facilitating faster signal propagation.

Graded Potentials

Local membrane potential changes that vary in magnitude and do not travel far from the point of stimulation.

Neuroglial Cells

Supporting cells in the nervous system that assist and protect neurons but do not participate directly in synaptic signaling.

Astrocytes

Star-shaped glial cells that maintain the blood-brain barrier and regulate the chemical environment of neurons.

Microglia

Immune cells in the CNS that act as the first line of defense by removing debris and pathogens.

Oligodendrocytes

Glial cells that produce myelin sheaths in the central nervous system.