5 Questions
What is the basic functional unit of the nervous system?
Neuron
Which part of the nervous system contains clusters of nerve cell bodies with the same function?
Ganglia
What are glial cells responsible for in the nervous system?
Supporting, protecting, and nourishing neurons
What is the role of neurotransmitters in the nervous system?
Exciting or inhibiting the activity of target cells
What can contribute to neurologic disorders in the nervous system?
Imbalances in neurotransmitters
Study Notes
- The Nervous System is composed of two main parts: the Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System.
- The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, which control motor, sensory, autonomic, cognitive, and behavioral activities.
- The brain has over 100 billion cells, connecting motor and sensory pathways, maintaining homeostasis, and directing various activities through chemical and electrical messages.
- A neuron is the basic functional unit of the Nervous System, consisting of dendrites, a cell body, and an axon. An axon may have a myelinated sheath for increased conduction speed.
- Ganglia or nuclei are clusters of nerve cell bodies with the same function, while glial cells support, protect, and nourish neurons and outnumber them.
- Neurons communicate through the release of neurotransmitters, which are manufactured and stored in synaptic vesicles and can excite or inhibit target cells.
- Neurotransmitters are released during an electrical action potential and can be destroyed or reabsorbed by enzymes.
- Imbalances in neurotransmitters can contribute to neurologic disorders.
Test your knowledge of neuroanatomy and physiology, focusing on the nervous system, altered levels of consciousness, intracranial pressure, seizures, and drugs affecting the nervous system.
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