Neuron Components and Types

Study Notes

Neuron Components

Axon: A long, slender projection of a neuron that transmits electrical impulses away from the cell body.
Axon Terminals: Small branches at the end of an axon that release neurotransmitters to communicate with other neurons or target cells.
Cell Body (Soma): The central part of a neuron containing the nucleus and other organelles, responsible for the neuron's metabolic activities.
Dendrite: Branching extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons.
Myelin Sheath: A fatty insulating layer around some axons, increasing the speed of impulse transmission.
Node of Ranvier: Gaps in the myelin sheath along the axon that allow for faster impulse propagation.

Nervous System Cell Types

Purkinje Neuron: A type of neuron primarily located in the cerebellum, involved in motor coordination and movement.
Glia: Supporting cells in the nervous system, outnumbering neurons. They provide structural support, insulation, and nourishment.
Astrocyte: A type of glial cell that provides structural support and regulates the chemical environment of neurons.
Oligodendrocyte: A type of glial cell that produces myelin in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord).
Microglia: A type of glial cell that acts as the immune defense in the central nervous system, removing cellular debris.
Ependymal: Glial cells that line the ventricles of the brain and produce cerebrospinal fluid.
Satellite: Glial cells that surround neurons in the peripheral nervous system, providing support.
Schwann: Glial cells that produce myelin in the peripheral nervous system.

Neuron Types

Sensory Neuron: Carries sensory information from sensory receptors to the central nervous system. Impulses travel towards the central nervous system.
Association Neuron (Interneuron): Found in the central nervous system, connecting sensory and motor neurons. Impulses travel between neurons in the CNS.
Motor Neuron: Transmits signals from the central nervous system to muscles or glands, causing a response. Impulses travel away from the central nervous system.

Central Nervous System Components

Cerebrum: The largest part of the brain, responsible for higher-level cognitive functions.
Cerebral Hemispheres: The two halves of the cerebrum.
Cerebral Cortex: The outer layer of the cerebrum, responsible for complex functions such as thought, language, and perception.
Frontal Lobe: Located at the front of the brain, responsible for higher cognitive functions.
Parietal Lobe: Involved in processing sensory information.
Temporal Lobes: Involved in auditory processing and memory.
Occipital Lobe: Involved in visual processing.
Basal Ganglia: Involved in coordinating movement and motor responses.
Diencephalon: A structure between the cerebral hemispheres and the brainstem.
Thalamus: A relay station for sensory information, directing it to the appropriate areas of the cerebral cortex.
Hypothalamus: Involved in regulating many bodily functions like homeostasis and the endocrine system.
Brain Stem: Connects the cerebrum and cerebellum to the spinal cord, containing vital centers for controlling breathing and heart rate.
Midbrain: Part of the brainstem, involved in relaying information between the cerebrum and the rest of the nervous system and has some eye and auditory functions.
Pons: Part of the brainstem, connecting the cerebrum and cerebellum, playing a role in sleep and arousal.
Medulla Oblongata: Part of the brainstem responsible for vital functions like breathing and heart rate control.
Cerebellum: Located at the back of the brain, plays a crucial role in coordination, balance, and movement.
Ventricles: Hollow spaces in the brain filled with cerebrospinal fluid, which cushions the brain and helps remove waste.

Autonomic Nervous System Effects

Sympathetic Nervous System: Generally prepares the body for "fight-or-flight" responses
Parasympathetic Nervous System: Generally promotes "rest and digest" functions
Effect Chart:* (Information needs details on "Effect" to complete the chart)

Cranial Nerves

Details regarding function, sensory, motor and autonomic components for each cranial nerve are listed.

Description

Explore the essential components of neurons, including axons, dendrites, and myelin sheaths. Learn about different types of nervous system cells, such as Purkinje neurons and glial cells, that support and enhance neuronal function. This quiz will test your knowledge on the structure and types of neurons.