Neurons and Neuroglia

Neuroglia

support, insulate and protect the neurons

Astrocytes

compose half of all nervous tissue.

Star shaped; Cling to neurons and bring them blood supply

Microglia

spider-like phagocytes that dispose of cellular debris and bacteria

Ependymal Cells

line the CNS cavities. Contain cilia that move CSF around.

Oligodendrocytes

produce the fatty coverings around neurons called myelin sheaths, that insulate the neurons.

Schwann Cells

form myelin sheaths around neurons. Ex) oligodendrocytes

Satellite Cells

protect, nourish and cushion neurons Ex) astrocytes, microglia and ependymal cells

Neurons

The cells of the nervous system; They transmit impulses from one part of the body to another.

Cell Body

metabolic center of the cell; contains the nucleus and organelles.

Axon

an extension of the cell body that carries impulses away from the cell body.

Axon Terminal

the end of an axon; where it meets a dendrite, muscle or gland

Dendrite

an extension of the cell body that carries impulses towards the cell body.

Myelin Sheath

the fatty insulation that surrounds and protects an axon.

Synapse

the gap between the axon termial and the muscle, gland, organ or neuron that it meets.

Interneurons

neurons that reside within the spinal cord and connect sensory and motor neurons to each other.

Neuroglia

Support insulate and protect cells

Neuron

Demonstrate irritability and conductivity, and thus transmit electrical messages from one are of the body to another area

Neuron

Release neurotransmitters

Neuron

Are amitotic

Neuroglia

Able to divide; therefore are responsible for most brain neoplasms