Schwann Cells and Neurons

Vocabulary flashcards focused on the structure and function of Schwann cells and neurons.

Schwann cells

Wrap around all nerve fibers in the PNS and play a vital role in repairing damaged nerve fibers.

Myelin sheath

Formed by Schwann cells wrapping their plasma membrane around the axon in successive layers.

Nodes of Ranvier

Gaps in the myelin sheath between Schwann cells along the nerve fiber.

Neurons

Cells of the nervous system specialized to conduct electrical impulses.

Amitotic

Characteristic of neurons indicating that they do not divide after maturity.

Neurogenesis

The process of generating new neurons, shown to occur in some mammals but remains unproven in humans.

Metabolic rate of neurons

Neurons have a very high metabolic rate and require a constant supply of glucose and oxygen.

Dendrites

Receptive regions of the neuron that receive signals.

Axon hillock

The initial segment of the axon where impulses are generated.

Plasticity

The ability of the nervous system to change in response to experience or injury.