Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

12. The Central Nervous System

Introduction to the Central Nervous System

Anatomy & Physiology

12. The Central Nervous System

Introduction to the Central Nervous System

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2:12 minutes

Problem 15

Textbook Question

Two major cell groups make up the nervous system—neurons and supporting cells such as astrocytes and Schwann cells. Which are 'nervous' cells?
Why? What are the major functions of the other cell group?

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Identify the two major cell groups in the nervous system mentioned in the problem: neurons and supporting cells (e.g., astrocytes and Schwann cells).

Step 2: Explain that neurons are considered the 'nervous' cells because they are the primary functional units of the nervous system, responsible for transmitting electrical signals (action potentials) and facilitating communication between different parts of the body and the brain.

Step 3: Describe the role of supporting cells, also known as glial cells, which include astrocytes, Schwann cells, and others. These cells do not transmit electrical signals but play crucial roles in maintaining the health and functionality of neurons.

Step 4: Highlight the specific functions of astrocytes, such as providing structural support, maintaining the blood-brain barrier, regulating the extracellular environment, and assisting in repair and scarring processes in the central nervous system.

Step 5: Discuss the role of Schwann cells, which are responsible for forming the myelin sheath around axons in the peripheral nervous system, thereby increasing the speed of nerve impulse conduction through saltatory conduction.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Neurons

Neurons are the primary functional units of the nervous system, responsible for transmitting electrical signals throughout the body. They consist of a cell body, dendrites, and an axon, allowing them to communicate with other neurons, muscles, and glands. Neurons are classified into sensory, motor, and interneurons, each serving distinct roles in processing and relaying information.

Supporting Cells (Glial Cells)

Supporting cells, or glial cells, include various types such as astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and Schwann cells. They play crucial roles in maintaining homeostasis, providing structural support, and facilitating the repair of nervous tissue. Unlike neurons, glial cells do not conduct electrical impulses but are essential for the overall health and functionality of the nervous system.

Functions of Supporting Cells

The major functions of supporting cells include providing insulation for neurons through myelination, regulating the extracellular environment, and participating in the immune response within the nervous system. For instance, astrocytes help maintain the blood-brain barrier and supply nutrients to neurons, while Schwann cells are involved in the regeneration of peripheral nerves after injury.

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Related Practice

Textbook Question

a. Contrast unipolar, bipolar, and multipolar neurons structurally.

b. Indicate where each is most likely to be found.

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Textbook Question

Histological examination of a slice of neural tissue reveals a bundle of nerve fibers held together by cells whose multiple processes wrap around several fibers and form a myelin sheath. The specimen is likely to be:

a. A nucleus

b. A ganglion

c. A nerve

d. A tract

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Textbook Question

Neuroglia present in large numbers in areas of bacterial infection in the brain are most likely:

a. Oligodendrocytes

b. Astrocytes

c. Ependymal cells

d. Microglia