Chapter 2 - The Cell Biology of Neurons and Glia

Abstract

Major structural features of neurons include dendrites, a cell body (soma), and an axon. Substances are moved throughout the interior of the neuron by specialized transport mechanisms. Communication between neurons occurs at junctions called synapses. The electrical properties of neurons make them well-suited as information receivers and information transmitters. Other cellular components of the nervous system are called glial cells. Typically there are three types of glial cells: astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglial cells, although some authors prefer to consider microglial cells as a separate category. Traditionally, glial cells are not believed to participate in neuronal communication, although recent evidence suggests that neuronal-glial interaction does take place. In addition to neurons and glia of the central nervous system, two types of supporting cells are found in the peripheral nervous system. These include Schwann cells and satellite cells, and while they play no obvious role in electrical communication, they are involved in structural and barrier functions.