Lecture Review on Nervous System and Glial Cells

These flashcards encapsulate key terms and their definitions related to the lecture on the nervous system, glial cells, and neurological disorders.

Glia

Supporting cells in the nervous system that nourish neurons, maintain homeostasis, and provide structural support.

Presynaptic

The neuron that sends a neurotransmitter in a synaptic communication.

Postsynaptic

The neuron or tissue that receives the signal in a synaptic communication.

Astrocytes

A type of glial cell that provides nutrients to neurons and helps maintain the blood-brain barrier.

Oligodendrocytes

Glial cells in the CNS responsible for creating myelin sheaths around axons.

Schwann Cells

Myelinating cells in the PNS that wrap around single axons to provide insulation.

Nodes of Ranvier

Gaps in the myelin sheath that facilitate the rapid conduction of nerve impulses.

Multiple Sclerosis

An autoimmune disease that causes damage to myelin in the CNS, leading to neurodegeneration and loss of function.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome

A condition where the immune system attacks the myelin of peripheral nerves, often resulting from a viral infection.

Tay-Sachs Disease

A genetic disorder caused by the absence of a specific enzyme needed to break down certain lipids, leading to nerve damage.