Histology of Nervous Tissue Review

A set of vocabulary flashcards derived from the lecture notes on the histology of nervous tissue, focusing on key terms and concepts.

Neuron

The basic functional unit of the nervous system responsible for transmitting signals.

Neuroglia

Specialized supporting cells in the nervous system that assist neurons.

Myelin sheath

Insulating layer surrounding nerve fibers that increases the speed of signal transmission.

Afferent neuron

Neuron that conducts impulses toward the CNS from the body periphery.

Efferent neuron

Neuron that conducts impulses away from the CNS to muscles and glands.

Interneuron

Neuron serving as part of the conduction pathway between sensory and motor neurons.

Synaptic cleft

Junction or point of close contact between neurons.

Endoneurium

Connective tissue covering that surrounds individual nerve fibers.

Perineurium

Connective tissue that surrounds a bundle of nerve fibers (fascicle).

Epineurium

Outer connective tissue covering of a nerve.

Mixed nerve

A nerve that contains both sensory and motor fibers.

Schwann cells

Cells in the PNS that form the myelin sheath around peripheral nerves.