The brain was originall believed to be a syncitium (a single interconnected mass) it was not until the development of specialized histological stains that individual neurons were identified in the brain and spinal cord.
The nervous system is composed mainly of 2 cell types: neurons and glia. Glia have many different functions including nutrition, insulation, phagocytosis, and forming the bood brain barrier.
Neurons are specialized cells whose main role is to communicate with each other (forming networks) and other cell types. Communication occurs at synapses where a neurotransmitter is released from one neuron to act on a receptor on another neuron. There is a broad range of both neurotransmitters and receptors on different types of neurons.
Neurons come in many different shapes and sizes. All have a cell body (soma) with 2 types of cytoplasmic extensions that connect them with other neurons.
The axon is the neuronal output which at its end forms a synapse (releasing neurotransmitter) with another neuron.
The dendrites form branches and are the neuronal input which have receptors (receiving neurotransmitter) from another neuron.
The study guides below should be used in the order Brief -> Detailed -> In Depth depending how much time you have for this topic. Note that the information at each level is not duplicated on the next level, so do not go immediately to In Depth work through each level. External Links may open in a new browser window, close or minimise the new window to see the original Study Guide page.
Start
by looking at the key online cell biology textbooks.
These links will give you an introduction to neurons and some images of these cells.
Where in development do neurons form?
More detailed online neuron resources.
Includes a link to a complete set of lecture slides on neurons and links to other online textbooks, multimedia and searching.
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Neuron structure and function.
Includes links to review articles, research articles and laboratories.
What are researchers studying now? What drugs affect neurons? What happens when neurons malfunction? What happens when neurons die?
Search NLM Online Textbooks- "Neuron"
cell junctions, extracellular matrix, adhesion junctions, membranes, signaling, Neurons, ligands
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We are our neurons! These millions of cells form communicating connections with each other to form complex networks that are continuously being remodelled. Neurons can be studied at many different levels these notes will look mainly at the structure of neurons. Use the study guides or links to look for more information.
Please email Dr Mark Hill if you wish to make a comment about this current project.