Neurons and glial cells

Welcome to this lecture on neurons and glial cells, providing an overview of the structure and essential functions of the nervous system, focusing on the specialized roles of neurons and glial cells. We will examine how neurons transmit signals through electrical and chemical processes, aided by myelination from glial cells. The presentation will highlight the diverse functions of glial cells and their critical interactions with neurons. Finally, we will discuss how this dynamic partnership underpins nervous system health and its relevance to neurological diseases. The nervous system is a complex network of billions of cells, coordinating bodily functions, sensation, and thought. At its core are two main cell types, neurons and glial cells. Neurons act as primary communicators, transmitting signals throughout the body. Glial cells or supporting cells are equally vital, maintaining neuronal health, modulating signaling, defending against infection, and influencing signal processing. These cells roles are fundamental to the function of the nervous system. Neurons are specialized, excitable cells uniquely structured for communication. Each has dendrites, branching extensions that receive information from other cells. The cell body or Soma, contains the nucleus and supports cell health. Signals travel down the axon, often insulated with myelin for rapid transmission. At the axon's end, synaptic terminals release neurotransmitters at synapses,