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Cells of the Nervous System definitions

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  • Neuron
    Specialized cell responsible for electrochemical communication within the nervous system, forming the basis of signaling.
  • Glial Cell
    Supportive cell that insulates, nourishes, and maintains neuronal health, ensuring optimal brain function.
  • Soma
    Central region of a neuron containing the nucleus and organelles, maintaining cell survival and function.
  • Dendrite
    Branch-like extension that receives chemical messages from neighboring neurons, initiating signal transmission.
  • Axon
    Long, singular projection transmitting electrical signals away from the cell body toward other neurons or muscles.
  • Axon Terminal
    Branching endpoint of an axon where signals are relayed to other cells via neurotransmitter release.
  • Terminal Button
    Bulbous structure at the end of an axon terminal, housing vesicles filled with neurotransmitters.
  • Vesicle
    Small sac within terminal buttons containing neurotransmitters, ready for release during neural signaling.
  • Neurotransmitter
    Chemical messenger released from vesicles, enabling communication between neurons at synaptic junctions.
  • Myelin Sheath
    Fatty, insulating layer formed by glial cells, dramatically increasing the speed of electrical signal conduction.
  • Node of Ranvier
    Gap between clumps of myelin on an axon, crucial for rapid and efficient signal transmission.
  • Sensory Neuron
    Cell type that receives information about environmental stimuli and conveys it to the central nervous system.
  • Motor Neuron
    Cell type that transmits signals from the central nervous system to muscles, initiating movement.
  • Interneuron
    Connector cell linking sensory and motor neurons, facilitating communication within the nervous system.
  • Central Nervous System
    Major division of the nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord, processing sensory input and motor output.