Structure of the neuron

Question 1

Cell body (Soma) (2)

Answer 1

Structure of the Neuron

1) Consists of the nucleus - manufacture of ribosomes and MRNA, maintaining neuron functioning
2) Axon hillock - generates action potential

Question 2

Dendrites (3)

Answer 2

Structure of the Neuron

1) ‘Listening’ part of the cell,
2) receives input signals from other neurons
3) The aggregate (graded potential) signal is passed into the soma/ axon h then either fires or not (action potential).

Question 3

Axon (3)

Answer 3

Structure of the Neuron

1) connects and carries AP from the axion h to the terminal endings (buttons).
2) can be coated in myelin, a fatty tissue that a) protects the electrical signal from external influence (vise versa) 3) increases the velocity of the AP

Question 4

Terminal (buttons) (2)

Answer 4

1) ‘Talking part’ of the cell

2) releases NTs into the SC, communicating with neighboring neurons.

Question 5

Synaptic Cleft (2)

Answer 5

Structure of the Neuron `

1) extracellular space between the terminal (presynaptic) and dendrite (postsynaptic) of two neurons
2) can be a) excitatory (increasing prob. that postsynaptic fires; b) inhibitory (decreasing prob. that postsynaptic neuron fires) c) modulatory (modifying the function of synaptic transmission)

Question 6

Vesicles (2)

Answer 6

Structure of the Neuron `

1) vessels of NT found in the presynaptic terminal
2) when AP reaches terminal, a chemical signal forces the vesicles to fuse with the cell membrane, releasing the NT

Question 7

Autoreceptors (2)

Answer 7

Structure of the Neuron

1) Molecular receptors found in the presynaptic membrane
2) monitors the amount of NT in the SC; and once detected a) inhibit the rate at which it is synthesized; b) reclaim excess NT (re-uptake)