Nervous Tissue

Nervous tissue is one of the four major types of tissues in the human body. It is made up of specialized cells called neurons that transmit electrical and chemical signals throughout the body. Nervous tissue is responsible for sensing stimuli, processing information, and coordinating the body's responses.

Structure of Nervous Tissue

Nervous tissue is composed of two main types of cells: neurons and neuroglial cells.

Neurons

Neurons are the primary functional cells of the nervous system. They are responsible for transmitting electrical signals, known as action potentials, from one part of the body to another. Neurons have a unique structure, with a cell body, dendrites, and an axon.

• Cell body: Also known as the soma, the cell body contains the nucleus and most of the cell's organelles.
• Dendrites: These are the short, branched extensions of the cell body that receive signals from other neurons and transmit them to the cell body.
• Axon: The axon is a long, single extension of the cell body that carries signals away from the cell body to other neurons or target cells.

Neuroglial Cells

Neuroglial cells, or glial cells, provide support and protection for neurons. They make up the majority of cells in the nervous system and have various functions, including insulation, nutrient transport, and immune defense.

Functions of Nervous Tissue

Nervous tissue is responsible for several critical functions in the body, including:

• Sensory function: Neurons detect and respond to stimuli from the internal and external environment.
• Integrative function: Nervous tissue processes and interprets sensory information to make decisions and generate appropriate responses.
• Motor function: Neurons transmit signals to muscles and glands, triggering appropriate responses to stimuli.

Study Guide

To study nervous tissue effectively, consider the following key points:

1. Learn the structure and function of neurons, including the roles of the cell body, dendrites, and axon.
2. Understand the types and functions of neuroglial cells in supporting and protecting neurons.
3. Explore the sensory, integrative, and motor functions of nervous tissue and their importance in maintaining homeostasis.
4. Review the pathways of signal transmission within the nervous system, including sensory input, integration by the central nervous system, and motor output.
5. Consider the various disorders and diseases that can affect nervous tissue, such as neurodegenerative diseases and traumatic injuries.

By understanding the structure, function, and significance of nervous tissue, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and importance of the human nervous system.