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Questions and Answers
Which parts are included in a neuron?
Which parts are included in a neuron?
What is the cell body of a neuron also known as?
What is the cell body of a neuron also known as?
Soma
What do dendrites do?
What do dendrites do?
Receive information from other neurons
The axon serves as the input unit of the neuron.
The axon serves as the input unit of the neuron.
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What is the role of the axon hillock?
What is the role of the axon hillock?
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What is the function of oligodendrocytes?
What is the function of oligodendrocytes?
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What do Schwann cells do?
What do Schwann cells do?
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What are pre-synaptic terminals?
What are pre-synaptic terminals?
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Where is the post-synaptic terminal located?
Where is the post-synaptic terminal located?
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What is the synaptic cleft?
What is the synaptic cleft?
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What are neurotransmitters?
What are neurotransmitters?
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In which direction can information be transferred?
In which direction can information be transferred?
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What are Nodes of Ranvier?
What are Nodes of Ranvier?
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Study Notes
Neuron Structure
- Key components of a neuron include: axon, myelin sheath, button terminals, Nodes of Ranvier, dendrites, nucleus, and cell body (soma).
Soma
- Also known as the cell body, it serves as the metabolic center of the neuron.
- Contains the nucleus which houses genetic material.
- Houses neurotransmitter-synthesizing mechanisms and energy-producing structures.
Dendrites
- Act as the input units of neurons; branch-like extensions.
- Responsible for receiving information from other neurons.
Axon
- Functions as the output unit, extending from the cell body to target cells.
- Transmits information to other cells, with lengths varying from a few centimeters to 1 meter.
Axon Hillock
- A small bump located between the axon and cell body where the axon originates.
Oligodendrocytes
- Specialized cells that myelinate axons in the central nervous system, providing insulation for better signal transmission.
Schwann Cells
- Myelinate axons in the peripheral nervous system, enhancing nerve signal speed and efficiency.
Pre-synaptic Terminals
- Fingerlike projections at the axon’s end responsible for transmitting information.
- Belong to the neuron sending the signal, signaling in one direction.
Post-synaptic Terminal
- Located on dendrites, cell bodies, or axons; receives signals from pre-synaptic terminals.
Synaptic Cleft
- The gap between pre-synaptic and post-synaptic terminals where neurotransmitter release and reception occur.
Neurotransmitters
- Chemical compounds that carry information about neuronal activity across synapses.
Direction of Information Transfer
- Information transfer occurs exclusively from the pre-synaptic terminal to the post-synaptic terminal.
Nodes of Ranvier
- Gaps in the myelin sheath that are not insulated, crucial for the rapid conduction of nerve impulses.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the various components of a neuron, including the axon, myelin sheath, and dendrites. This quiz covers key terms and their functions within the nervous system. Perfect for students learning about biology or neuroscience.
