Nervous System Review

What is the primary function of oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system?

Which type of synapse is characterized by fast signal transmission due to electric coupling?

Which cell type is responsible for forming the blood-brain barrier?

What structure generates action potentials in neurons?

What does myelin primarily function as in the nervous system?

What is the role of Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system?

Which component is primarily involved in the mechanical strength of neurons?

What is the role of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the central nervous system?

What type of neuron is characterized by having multiple processes extending from its cell body?

What role do astrocytes play in the nervous system?

How do chemical synapses differ from electrical synapses?

What is primarily contained within the Schmidt-Lanterman cleft?

Which of the following glial cells acts as immune cells in the brain?

What is the primary structural role of microtubules in neurons?

What is the function of endoneurium in peripheral nerves?

Which neurotransmitter is primarily known for its excitatory effects?

Nervous System Review

Neurons: Transmit signals from brain to muscles, afferent from body to brain
Excitability and conductivity: Neurons transmit signals; ability to transmit electrical signals
Nissl bodies: Protein synthesis sites in neurons, important for neurotransmitter production
Glial cells: Support neurons; myelinates axons in the central nervous system (CSF) protects brain, removes waste
Axon hillocks: Generate action potentials, high concentration of ion channels
Chemical vs. electrical synapses: Chemical synapses release neurotransmitters, electrical synapses use direct electrical coupling; chemical synapses are slower than electrical
Synaptic plasticity: Synapses can change strength, important for memory formation
Schwann cells: Myelinate axons in the peripheral nervous system (PNS)
Myelin: Insulates axons, preventing ion leakage across axon membrane
Astrocytes: Part of the blood-brain barrier, helps with brain protection, repair, and pathogen protection, also help with clearing and repairing damaged brain tissue
Microglia: Immune cells, act in phagocytosis
Ependymal cells: Produce and circulate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
Types of Neurons: Multipolar (motor neurons), bipolar (sensory), unipolar (special sensory)
Neuron Structure/Function: Soma (cell body); dendrites receive signals; axon transmit signals; axon terminals release neurotransmitters
Neurotransmitters: Chemical messengers that transmit signals across synapses
Removal of Neurotransmitters: Recycling of synaptic vesicles, degradation by enzymes, diffusion from cleft
Multiple Neuron Functions: Signal transmission, maintenance of shape, and mechanical strength
Schwann cells: Myelinate axons in PNS, forming gaps (Nodes of Ranvier)
CNS: Brain and spinal cord; PNS: nerves; ganglia = groups of neuronal cell bodies in the PNS
Neurotransmitters: Examples include glutamate (excitatory)
CT layers: Endoneurium (surrounds individual axons), perineurium (encloses bundles), epineurium (forms and encases nerve)

Test your knowledge on the nervous system including neurons, synapses, and glial cells. This quiz covers essential components like excitability, conductivity, and the roles of various types of cells in supporting neuronal functions. Perfect for students studying biology or physiology.