Chapter 2: STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF CELLS OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

The content of chapter 2 is divided into three major sections. The opening section provides an overview of neural communication and describes the essential features of neurons, of the cells that support nerve cell function (neuroglia), and of the blood-brain barrier. The middle section of this chapter provides an understanding of the electrical properties of nerve cell membrane that enable the nerve cell to initiate and conduct the action potential. The section discusses the ionic basis for the resting membrane potential and for the propagation of the action potential. The final section of chapter section covers the concept of the synapse, the processes involved in chemical synaptic transmission (from synthesis to termination of transmitter activity), the integration of post-synaptic potentials, and the impact of hormones and neuromodulators on behavior.

After Completing the chapter, each students should be able to:

• Contrast sensory and motor neurons
• Characterize the four major structures that comprise most neurons.
• Contrast multipolar, bipolar, and unipolar neurons.
• Describe the internal structures of a nerve cell.
• Describe anterograde axoplasmic transport.
• Describe the functions performed by the supporting cells of the brain and peripheral nervous system
• Contrast the anatomy and function of oligodendroglia and Schwann cells.
• Explain the functional significance of the blood-brain barrier.
• Explain the physical forces that result in the resting membrane potential.
• Explain the action potential in terms of ion movements across the membrane.
• Explain why action potentials follow the "all-or-none" law.
• Describe the structures of synapses, the release of neurotransmitters, and the activation of postsynaptic receptors.
• Explain salutatory conduction.
• Describe the elements that comprise the synaptic cleft.
• Contrast ionotropic and metabotropic receptors.
• Describe the three types of neurotransmitter-dependent ion channels.
• Describe the processes of reuptake and enzymatic degradation.
• Describe the functions of autoreceptors.
• Contrast presynaptic inhibition with presynaptic facilitation.
• Differentiate between hormones, neurotransmitters, and neuromodulators.