Table of contents

Prepare for your exams

Upload your syllabus and get recommendations on what to study and when. No syllabus? Sharing your exam schedule works too.

Skip topic navigation

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart2h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

4. Tissues & Histology

Introduction to Nervous Tissue

4. Tissues & Histology

Introduction to Nervous Tissue: Videos & Practice Problems

Video Lessons Practice Worksheet

Topic summary

Nervous tissue is specialized for generating and transmitting electrical impulses, known as action potentials, throughout the body. It is primarily composed of neurons, which conduct these impulses, and neuroglia (glial cells), which support and protect neurons. Nervous tissue is found in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Understanding the structure and function of neurons and glial cells is essential for grasping the complexities of the nervous system and its role in maintaining homeostasis and facilitating communication within the body.

concept

Intro to Nervous Tissue

Video duration:

Play a video:

Was this helpful?

Intro to Nervous Tissue Video Summary

Nervous tissue is a specialized type of tissue in the human body that generates and transmits electrical impulses, known as action potentials. This tissue is primarily located in the brain, spinal cord, and throughout the body via nerves. Understanding the structure and function of nervous tissue is essential, as it plays a critical role in communication within the body.

The main components of nervous tissue are two types of cells: neurons and neuroglia (or glial cells). Neurons are the primary cells responsible for generating and conducting electrical impulses. They have a unique structure that includes long extensions, which facilitate the transmission of signals. In contrast, neuroglia are non-conducting cells that support, insulate, and protect neurons. The term neuroglia encompasses various cell types, each contributing to the overall health and functionality of the nervous system.

In summary, nervous tissue is vital for the body's communication system, with neurons leading the charge in impulse conduction and neuroglia providing essential support. As the course progresses, a deeper exploration of the structure and function of these cells will enhance understanding of their roles in the nervous system.

Problem

If a sensory nerve running from the hand to the spinal cord is severed, you will lose feeling in your hand. What statement best describes the reason for this?

The electrical impulse can no longer be conducted from the hand to the spinal cord.

The neurotransmitter molecules can no longer travel from the hand to the spinal cord.

The neuron can no longer transmit the signal from neuron in the hand to the neuroglial cells in the spinal cord.

The neuroglia cells can no longer transmit the signal from the hand to the spinal cord.

Problem

Which of the following is NOT a function of neuroglia?

Protecting neurons.

Supplying nutrients to neurons.

Regulating the composition of interstitial fluid.

Conducting electrical impulses.

Do you want more practice?

We have more practice problems on Introduction to Nervous Tissue

Here’s what students ask on this topic:

What is nervous tissue and where is it found in the body?

Nervous tissue is specialized for generating and transmitting electrical impulses, known as action potentials, throughout the body. It is primarily composed of neurons, which conduct these impulses, and neuroglia (glial cells), which support and protect neurons. Nervous tissue is found in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. The brain and spinal cord make up the central nervous system (CNS), while the peripheral nerves extend throughout the body, forming the peripheral nervous system (PNS). This tissue plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and facilitating communication within the body.

What are the main types of cells in nervous tissue?

The main types of cells in nervous tissue are neurons and neuroglia (glial cells). Neurons are the primary cells responsible for generating and conducting electrical impulses. They have specialized structures, such as long tails called axons, to transmit these signals. Neuroglia, or glial cells, do not conduct electrical impulses. Instead, they support, insulate, and protect the neurons. There are multiple types of glial cells, each with specific functions, including astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, and Schwann cells.

What is the function of neurons in nervous tissue?

Neurons are the primary cells in nervous tissue responsible for generating and conducting electrical impulses, known as action potentials. These impulses allow neurons to communicate with each other and with other types of cells throughout the body. Neurons have specialized structures, such as dendrites to receive signals and axons to transmit them. This communication is essential for various bodily functions, including sensory perception, motor control, and cognitive processes.

What roles do neuroglia (glial cells) play in nervous tissue?

Neuroglia, or glial cells, play several crucial roles in nervous tissue. Unlike neurons, they do not conduct electrical impulses. Instead, they support, insulate, and protect neurons. Different types of glial cells have specific functions: astrocytes maintain the blood-brain barrier and provide nutrients to neurons; oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells form myelin sheaths around axons to speed up signal transmission; microglia act as immune cells within the CNS, and ependymal cells produce cerebrospinal fluid. These functions are vital for the overall health and efficiency of the nervous system.

How do neurons and glial cells interact in nervous tissue?

Neurons and glial cells interact closely to ensure the proper functioning of nervous tissue. Neurons generate and transmit electrical impulses, while glial cells provide essential support. For example, astrocytes supply neurons with nutrients and maintain the extracellular environment. Oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells form myelin sheaths around axons, which increase the speed of electrical signal transmission. Microglia protect neurons by removing debris and pathogens. This symbiotic relationship ensures that neurons can efficiently communicate and perform their roles in the nervous system.