Neuron Components and Types

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.