Structure and Functions of Cells of the Nervous System

These flashcards cover key concepts about the structure and functions of cells in the nervous system, focusing on neuron types, cellular components, neurotransmission, and related physiological processes.

What are the two major parts of the nervous system?

The Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).

What are the three main types of neurons?

Sensory neurons (afferent), motor neurons (efferent), and interneurons.

What is the function of the soma of a neuron?

It is the cell body that contains the nucleus.

What role does the myelin sheath play in neurons?

It surrounds axons and insulates them, preventing messages from spreading between adjacent axons.

Define action potential.

A brief electrical impulse that provides the basis for conduction of information along an axon.

What is the resting potential of a neuron?

Approximately -70 mV, meaning it is not currently being excited or inhibited.

What is the role of neurotransmitters in neurons?

They bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron and alter its membrane potential, leading to excitatory or inhibitory postsynaptic potentials.

What is the blood-brain barrier?

A semi-permeable barrier produced by cells in the walls of the brain's capillaries that helps maintain the proper composition of fluids inside and outside the neurons.

What is phagocytosis in the context of glial cells?

The process by which cells engulf and digest other cells or debris caused by cellular degeneration.

What is the difference between EPSP and IPSP?

EPSP (excitatory postsynaptic potential) is an excitatory depolarization, while IPSP (inhibitory postsynaptic potential) is a hyperpolarization.