Neuron Structure and Function

The neuron's cell body, containing the nucleus and essential cell components, serves as the neuron's metabolic center.

The receiving portion of a neuron, collecting signals from other neurons.

The sending portion of a neuron, transmitting signals to other neurons, muscles, or glands.

A specialized structure at the end of the axon, containing synaptic vesicles filled with neurotransmitters.

The gap between neurons or between a neuron and an effector cell, where communication takes place through neurotransmitter release.

Chemical messengers stored in synaptic vesicles and released into the synapse to transmit signals between neurons or between a neuron and an effector cell.

The ability of a neuron to respond to a stimulus and generate an action potential, relying on the movement of sodium and potassium ions.

The division of the nervous system that conveys messages from sensory receptors to the central nervous system (CNS)

The division of the nervous system that conveys messages from the CNS to effectors, such as muscles and glands.

Specialized cells that support and protect neurons in the nervous system.

A type of neuroglia that provides structural support, maintains blood-brain barrier, and transports nutrients to neurons.

A type of neuroglia that forms the myelin sheath around axons in the central nervous system (CNS).

A multi-layered lipid and protein covering that insulates axons, increasing the speed of action potential transmission.

The gaps between segments of myelin sheath on an axon, where action potentials can jump, increasing the speed of conduction.

An autoimmune disease that causes progressive destruction of the myelin sheath, leading to neurological symptoms like muscle weakness, sensory disturbances, and vision problems.

The difference in electrical charge between the inside and outside of a neuron when the neuron is at rest.

The process of a neuron becoming more negative inside relative to the outside, making it less likely to fire an action potential.

The neurons that convey sensory information from sensory receptors to the CNS.

The neurons that convey motor commands from the CNS to effectors, such as muscles and glands.

A type of nerve cell that connects sensory neurons to motor neurons, helping to integrate and process information within the CNS.

The speed at which an action potential travels along an axon, influenced by factors such as axon diameter, myelination, and temperature.

The process by which an action potential jumps from node to node along a myelinated axon, increasing the speed of conduction.

The diameter of an axon influences action potential speed, with thicker axons allowing for faster conduction.

The presence of myelin sheath increases action potential speed by allowing for saltatory conduction.

Temperature affects action potential speed, with higher temperatures resulting in faster conduction.

The principle that a neuron will either fire an action potential fully or not at all, there is no 'halfway' signal.

The brief period after an action potential when a neuron is less likely to fire another action potential, ensuring proper signal timing and direction.

The process of a neuron becoming more positive inside relative to the outside, making it more likely to fire an action potential.

The process of a neuron returning to its resting membrane potential after an action potential.