6 Questions
What is the function of dendrites in a nerve cell?
Convey incoming messages away from the cell body
Which type of cells are known as 'nerve glue'?
Microglia
What is the function of myelin in nerve fibers?
Cover and insulate the fibers
Which part of a neuron is considered the metabolic center?
Cell body
What are Schwann cells and satellite cells referred to collectively?
CNS glia
What function does irritability serve in neurons?
Respond to stimulus and convert it into a nerve impulse
Study Notes
Types of Cells
- There are two principal types of cells
Supporting Cells (Neuroglia)
- Means "nerve glue"
- Types of neuroglia (glia):
- Astrocytes
- Microglia
- Ependymal cells
- Oligodendrocytes (CNS glia)
- Schwann cells
- Satellite cells (PNS glia)
Neuron Anatomy
- Also called nerve cells
- Highly specialized to transmit messages (nerve impulses) from one part of the body to another
- Composed of:
- Cell body: contains the nucleus, metabolic center of the neuron
- Processes or fibers: armlike projections with two types
- Dendrites: convey incoming messages (electrical signals) toward the cell body
- Axons: generate impulses and conduct them away from the cell body
- Myelin: whitish, fatty material that
- Covers nerve fibers
- Protects and insulates the fibers
- Increases transmission rates of nerve impulses
CNS Regions
- White matter: dense collections of myelinated fibers (tracts)
- Gray matter: dense collections of unmyelinated fibers and cell bodies
Neuron Physiology
- Two major functions:
- Irritability: respond to a stimulus and convert it into a nerve impulse
- Conductivity: transmit the impulse to other neurons, muscles, or glands
Learn about the two principal types of cells in the nervous system - Supporting Cells (Neuroglia) and Neurons Anatomy. Explore the different types of neuroglia and the specialized functions of nerve cells.
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