Abstract
This chapter provides general information on the various types of cells that compose nervous tissues and serves as an introduction to cellular neuroscience. Different classes of neurons are presented in terms of their function, morphology, neurochemistry, and place in neural circuits. Cortical pyramidal neurons and inhibitory interneuron subtypes are discussed together with examples of specialized neurons from subcortical regions. The structure of excitatory and inhibitory synapses is also reviewed. Each type of glial cell (astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, as well as microglia) is introduced in separate sections that review their particular function, structure, and interactions with neurons. A final section presents brain endothelial cells and their role in maintenance of the blood-brain barrier.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | From Molecules to Networks |
Subtitle of host publication | An Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience: Third Edition |
Publisher | Elsevier Inc. |
Pages | 3-21 |
Number of pages | 19 |
ISBN (Print) | 9780123971791 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 11 Jul 2014 |
Keywords
- Astrocyte
- Glia
- Interneuron
- Microglia
- Microvasculature
- Neurons
- Oligodendrocyte
- Pyramidal cell