HISTOLOGY HISTOLOGY

NERVOUS SYSTEM NERVOUS SYSTEM

Chona Chona H. H. Araga Araga, M.D. , M.D.
NERVOUS FUNCTIONS NERVOUS FUNCTIONS
Bodys master controlling and communicating Bodys master controlling and communicating
system system
Three functions Three functions
Sensory input Sensory input
Gathers information Gathers information
from sensory receptors from sensory receptors
Integration Integration
Processes and interprets Processes and interprets
sensory input sensory input
Motor output Motor output
Activates effector organs to cause a response Activates effector organs to cause a response
Nervous System Nervous System
Organization Organization
ORGANIZATION ORGANIZATION
Two Principal Parts of the System Two Principal Parts of the System
Central nervous system (CNS) Central nervous system (CNS)
Brain and spinal cord Brain and spinal cord
Integrating and command center Integrating and command center
Interprets sensory input Interprets sensory input
Dictates motor responses Dictates motor responses
Peripheral nervous system (PNS) Peripheral nervous system (PNS)
Nerves extending from brain and spinal cord Nerves extending from brain and spinal cord
Carry impulses to and from the CNS Carry impulses to and from the CNS
PERIPHERAL DIVISIONS PERIPHERAL DIVISIONS
Two Functional Subdivisions of the PNS Two Functional Subdivisions of the PNS
Sensory division Sensory division
afferent division afferent division
Nerve fibers conveying impulses to the CNS Nerve fibers conveying impulses to the CNS
Somatic afferent fibers Somatic afferent fibers convey impulses from the skin, convey impulses from the skin,
muscles, and joints muscles, and joints
Visceral afferent fibers Visceral afferent fibers convey impulses from visceral convey impulses from visceral
organs organs
Motor division Motor division
, efferent division , efferent division
Nerve fibers conveying impulses from the CNS Nerve fibers conveying impulses from the CNS
ORGANIZATION ORGANIZATION
HISTOLOGY HISTOLOGY
Nervous system consists mainly of nervous Nervous system consists mainly of nervous
tissue tissue
Highly cellular Highly cellular
e.g., <20% extracellular space in CNS e.g., <20% extracellular space in CNS
Two principal cell types Two principal cell types
Neurons Neurons
Excitable nerve cells that transmit electrical signals Excitable nerve cells that transmit electrical signals
Supporting cells Supporting cells
Smaller cells surrounding and wrapping neurons Smaller cells surrounding and wrapping neurons
Neuroglia Neuroglia
NEUROGLIA NEUROGLIA
Nerve glue Nerve glue
Six types of small cells associated with neurons Six types of small cells associated with neurons
4 in CNS 4 in CNS
2 in PNS 2 in PNS
Most have central cell body and branching Most have central cell body and branching
processes processes
Several functions Several functions
e.g., Supportive scaffolding for neurons e.g., Supportive scaffolding for neurons
e.g., Electrical isolation of neurons e.g., Electrical isolation of neurons
e.g., Neuron health and growth e.g., Neuron health and growth
CNS NEUROGLIA CNS NEUROGLIA
Astrocytes Astrocytes
Microglia Microglia
Ependymal cells Ependymal cells
Oligodendrocytes Oligodendrocytes
CNS NEUROGLIA CNS NEUROGLIA
Astrocytes Astrocytes
Most abundant and versatile Most abundant and versatile glial glial cells cells
Numerous processes support branching neurons Numerous processes support branching neurons
Anchor neurons to capillary blood supply Anchor neurons to capillary blood supply
Guide migration of young neurons Guide migration of young neurons
Facilitate nutrient delivery to neurons Facilitate nutrient delivery to neurons
(blood (blood glial glial cell cell neuron) neuron)
Control chemical environment Control chemical environment
around neurons around neurons
Uptake of K Uptake of K
++
, neurotransmitters , neurotransmitters
Communicate with Communicate with astrocytes astrocytes
& neurons & neurons
Gap junctions Gap junctions
ASTROCYTES ASTROCYTES
star shaped cells with many branching star shaped cells with many branching cytoplasmic cytoplasmic
process, process,
develop from develop from ectodermal ectodermal spongioblasts spongioblasts..
nuclei are large, ovoid, spherical, nuclei not nuclei are large, ovoid, spherical, nuclei not
obvious, obvious,
cytoplasm has cytoplasm has golgi golgi complex, complex,
few few ribosomes ribosomes, little granular reticulum, , little granular reticulum,
lysosomes,and lysosomes,and glycogen. glycogen.
2 types of 2 types of
astrocytes: astrocytes:
protoplasmic astrocytes = found in gray matter protoplasmic astrocytes = found in gray matter
of brain, spinal cordwith short thick processes.. of brain, spinal cordwith short thick processes..
Fibrous astrocyte = found in white matter, with Fibrous astrocyte = found in white matter, with
long slender processes with few branches. long slender processes with few branches.
CNS NEUROGLIA CNS NEUROGLIA
Microglia Microglia
Small ovoid cells Small ovoid cells
Relatively long thorny Relatively long thorny
processes processes
Processes touch nearby neurons Processes touch nearby neurons
Migrate toward injured neurons Migrate toward injured neurons
Transform into macrophage Transform into macrophage
Phagocytize Phagocytize microorganisms, debris microorganisms, debris
(Cells of immune system cannot enter the CNS) (Cells of immune system cannot enter the CNS)
CNS NEUROGLIA CNS NEUROGLIA
Ependymal Cells Ependymal Cells
Line central cavities of brain and spinal cord Line central cavities of brain and spinal cord
Form permeable barrier between cerebrospinal fluid inside Form permeable barrier between cerebrospinal fluid inside
these cavities and tissue fluid of CNS tissue these cavities and tissue fluid of CNS tissue
Shapes range from squamous to columnar Shapes range from squamous to columnar
Many are ciliated Many are ciliated
Beating helps circulate cerebrospinal fluid cushioning brain Beating helps circulate cerebrospinal fluid cushioning brain
and spinal cord and spinal cord
CNS NEUROGLIA CNS NEUROGLIA
Oligodendrocytes Oligodendrocytes
Fewer processes than astrocytes Fewer processes than astrocytes
Wrap processes tightly around thicker neuron Wrap processes tightly around thicker neuron
fibers in CNS fibers in CNS
Myelin sheath Myelin sheath
Insulating covering Insulating covering
OLIGODENDROCYTES OLIGODENDROCYTES
smaller than smaller than astrocytes astrocytes..
Develop from Develop from spongioblasts spongioblasts ( primary ( primary ectodermal ectodermal
cells) cells)
Fewer than Fewer than astrocytes astrocytes with fewer and shorter with fewer and shorter
processes. processes.
Nuclei are small, ovoid, irregular, scanty Nuclei are small, ovoid, irregular, scanty
cytoplasm cytoplasm
On electron microscopy, more dense with On electron microscopy, more dense with
numerous free and attached numerous free and attached ribosomes ribosomes, extensive , extensive
golgi golgi complex complex
Occur mainly in gray matter and among bundles of Occur mainly in gray matter and among bundles of
axons in white matter ( axons in white matter (interfascicular interfascicular
oligodendrocytes oligodendrocytes) )
PNS NEUROGLIA PNS NEUROGLIA
Satellite cells Satellite cells
Schwann cells Schwann cells
PNS NEUROGLIA PNS NEUROGLIA
Satellite cells Satellite cells
Surround neuron cell bodies within ganglia Surround neuron cell bodies within ganglia
(A ganglion is a collection of nerve cell bodies (A ganglion is a collection of nerve cell bodies
outside of the CNS) outside of the CNS)
Function poorly understood Function poorly understood
PNS NEUROGLIA PNS NEUROGLIA
Schwann cells Schwann cells
Neurolemmocytes Neurolemmocytes
Surround and form myelin sheaths around larger nerve Surround and form myelin sheaths around larger nerve
fibers of PNS fibers of PNS
Functionally similar to Functionally similar to oligodendrocytes oligodendrocytes
Vital to regeneration of peripheral nerve fibers Vital to regeneration of peripheral nerve fibers
NEURONS NEURONS
Nerve cells Nerve cells
Structural units of nervous system Structural units of nervous system
Billions are present in nervous system Billions are present in nervous system
Conduct messages throughout body Conduct messages throughout body
Nerve impulses Nerve impulses
Extreme longevity Extreme longevity
Can function optimally for entire lifetime Can function optimally for entire lifetime
Amitotic Amitotic
Ability to divide is lost in mature cells Ability to divide is lost in mature cells
Cannot be replaced if destroyed Cannot be replaced if destroyed
Some (very few) exceptions Some (very few) exceptions
e.g., stem cells present in olfactory epithelium can produce new neurons e.g., stem cells present in olfactory epithelium can produce new neurons
Stem cell research shows great promise in repairing damaged neurons Stem cell research shows great promise in repairing damaged neurons
High metabolic rate High metabolic rate
Require large amounts of oxygen and glucose Require large amounts of oxygen and glucose
Neurotrophins Neurotrophins
Promote neuron growth. Promote neuron growth.
Nerve growth factors include: Nerve growth factors include:
Nerve growth factor (NGF), brain Nerve growth factor (NGF), brain- -derived neurotrophic factor derived neurotrophic factor
(BDNF), glial (BDNF), glial- -derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF),
neurotrophin neurotrophin- -3, and neurotrophin 3, and neurotrophin- -4/5. 4/5.
Fetus: Fetus:
Embryonic development of sensory neurons and sympathetic Embryonic development of sensory neurons and sympathetic
ganglia (NGF and neurotrophin ganglia (NGF and neurotrophin- -3). 3).
Adult: Adult:
Maintenance of sympathetic ganglia (NGF). Maintenance of sympathetic ganglia (NGF).
Mature sensory neurons need for regeneration. Mature sensory neurons need for regeneration.
Required to maintain spinal neurons (GDNF). Required to maintain spinal neurons (GDNF).
Sustain neurons that use dopamine (GDNF). Sustain neurons that use dopamine (GDNF).
Myelin Myelin- -associated inhibitory proteins: associated inhibitory proteins:
Inhibit axon regeneration. Inhibit axon regeneration.
Neurons Neurons
Axon of another
neuron
Axon of another
neuron
Cell Body Cell Body
Dendrites Dendrites
Axon Axon
Myelin
Sheath
Myelin
Sheath
Dendrites of
another neuron
Dendrites of
another neuron
NEURONS NEURONS
Generally large, complex cells Generally large, complex cells
Structures vary, but all neurons have the same basic Structures vary, but all neurons have the same basic
structure structure
Cell body Cell body
Slender processes Slender processes
extending from cell extending from cell
body body
Plasma membrane Plasma membrane
is site of signaling is site of signaling
NEURON CELL BODY NEURON CELL BODY
Most neuron cell bodies are located in the CNS Most neuron cell bodies are located in the CNS
Protected by bones of skull or vertebral column Protected by bones of skull or vertebral column
Clusters of cell bodies in the CNS are termed Clusters of cell bodies in the CNS are termed
nuclei nuclei
Clusters of cell Clusters of cell
bodies in the bodies in the
PNS are PNS are
termed termed
ganglia ganglia
NEURON CELL BODY NEURON CELL BODY
a.k.a., perikaryon or soma a.k.a., perikaryon or soma
5 5 140 140 m in diameter m in diameter
Transparent spherical nucleus Transparent spherical nucleus
Contains Contains
conspicuous conspicuous
nucleolus nucleolus
Perikaryon ( soma) Perikaryon ( soma)
> Formed by the nucleus and surrounding > Formed by the nucleus and surrounding
cytoplasm. cytoplasm.
> Has a receptive function, receives stimuli > Has a receptive function, receives stimuli
generated in other nerve cells. generated in other nerve cells.
> acts as the trophic or nourishing center of the > acts as the trophic or nourishing center of the
cell. cell.
Perikaryon Perikaryon
. Nucleus . Nucleus
large up to 20 um dm. large up to 20 um dm.
euchromatic and spherical, centrally located in soma euchromatic and spherical, centrally located in soma
chromatin is fine and dispersed chromatin is fine and dispersed
only one large nucleoli indicating active synthesis only one large nucleoli indicating active synthesis
Barr bodies present Barr bodies present
Nuclear envelop is distinct with numerous pores. Nuclear envelop is distinct with numerous pores.
With large pale vesicular nucleus and prominent nucleulos With large pale vesicular nucleus and prominent nucleulos
owls eye. owls eye.
NEURON CELL BODY NEURON CELL BODY
Major biosynthetic center of neuron Major biosynthetic center of neuron
Other usual organelles present Other usual organelles present
ER & ER & ribosomes ribosomes most active and best developed in body most active and best developed in body
Sometimes contains Sometimes contains
pigment inclusions pigment inclusions
NEURON CELL BODY NEURON CELL BODY
Focal point for the outgrowth of neuron processes Focal point for the outgrowth of neuron processes
during embryonic development during embryonic development
Some processes receive signals Some processes receive signals
Plasma membrane Plasma membrane
generally also acts generally also acts
as part of the as part of the
receptive surface receptive surface
Perikaryon. Perikaryon.
. . Cytoplasmic Cytoplasmic organelles organelles
plasmalemma plasmalemma is 7 is 7 8 nm thick 8 nm thick
mitochondria usually small ovoid, or spherical with mitochondria usually small ovoid, or spherical with cristae cristae of of
both tubular and lamellar type. both tubular and lamellar type.
Large Large golgi golgi apparatus & apparatus & para para- -nuclear in position. nuclear in position.
Centrioles Centrioles are prominent with cilium protruding from cell are prominent with cilium protruding from cell
surface surface.( nerve cells are incapable of cell division) .( nerve cells are incapable of cell division)
Primary Primary lysosomes lysosomes are common, located near a are common, located near a golgi golgi
apparatus, associated with hydrolysis of end products of apparatus, associated with hydrolysis of end products of
cellular metabolism cellular metabolism
Secondary Secondary lysosomes lysosomes increase in number with age, some increase in number with age, some
become become lipofuscin lipofuscin granules. granules.
PROMINENT FEATURES OF PROMINENT FEATURES OF
NEURONS NEURONS
NISSL bodies NISSL bodies are basophilic component of the are basophilic component of the
cytoplasm, cytoplasm,
stained by basic aniline dyes stained by basic aniline dyes
bodies are stack of granular endoplasmic reticulum with bodies are stack of granular endoplasmic reticulum with
associated associated polysomes polysomes and and ribosomes ribosomes both free and both free and
attached. attached.
Present in dendrites but absent in axon and the axon Present in dendrites but absent in axon and the axon
hillock. hillock.
Axon hillock = clear conical areas at the origin Axon hillock = clear conical areas at the origin
of axon from the soma. of axon from the soma.
Nissl Nissl bodies react to injury by breaking up bodies react to injury by breaking up
and diffusing throughout the cytoplasm called and diffusing throughout the cytoplasm called
chromatolysis chromatolysis
Prominent features of Prominent features of
neurons neurons
Neurofibrils Neurofibrils
visible by light microscopy visible by light microscopy
found through out the found through out the parikaryon parikaryon
extend into dendrites and axons. extend into dendrites and axons.
The bundles contain microtubules ( The bundles contain microtubules ( neurotubules neurotubules
25 nm dm ) and microfilaments ( 25 nm dm ) and microfilaments ( neurofilaments neurofilaments, ,
10 nm dm). 10 nm dm).
Prominent features Prominent features
of neuron of neuron
Cytoplasmic Cytoplasmic inclusions. inclusions.
fat droplets commonly found in fat droplets commonly found in perikaryon perikaryon
glycogen not present in adult neurons. glycogen not present in adult neurons.
Pigments granules various type present Pigments granules various type present
Lipofuscin Lipofuscin granules in large neurons. granules in large neurons.
Granules are yellow brown Granules are yellow brown
Iron granules present in nerve cells of various regions like Iron granules present in nerve cells of various regions like
in in globus globus pallidus pallidus, tend to increase in number with age. , tend to increase in number with age.
Melanin is present in: Melanin is present in:
substantia substantia nigra nigra of midbrain, of midbrain,
spinal and sympathetic ganglia spinal and sympathetic ganglia
Locus Locus ceruleus ceruleus in 4th ventricle floor. in 4th ventricle floor.
NEURON PROCESSES NEURON PROCESSES
Extend from the neurons cell body Extend from the neurons cell body
CNS contains both neuron cell bodies and their CNS contains both neuron cell bodies and their
processes processes
Bundles of CNS processes are termed tracts Bundles of CNS processes are termed tracts
PNS consists mainly of neuronal processes PNS consists mainly of neuronal processes
Bundles of PNS processes are termed nerves Bundles of PNS processes are termed nerves
Two types of neuron processes Two types of neuron processes
Dendrites Dendrites
Axons Axons
Nerve cell Nerve cell
processes. processes.
Dendrites = nerve cells of sensory ganglia ( Dendrites = nerve cells of sensory ganglia ( uni uni
and bipolar) have a single dendrite that and bipolar) have a single dendrite that
resembles an axon. resembles an axon.
> main stem dendrites contain > main stem dendrites contain nissl nissl bodies. bodies.
> contains microtubules and filaments > contains microtubules and filaments
> involved in transport of organelles > involved in transport of organelles
> contains > contains dendritic dendritic spines specialized for spines specialized for
synaptic contacts. synaptic contacts.
NEURON PROCESSES NEURON PROCESSES
Typical Dendrite Typical Dendrite
Short, tapering, diffusely branching extensions Short, tapering, diffusely branching extensions
Generally hundreds clustering close to cell body Generally hundreds clustering close to cell body
Most cell body organelles also present in dendrites Most cell body organelles also present in dendrites
Main receptive / input regions Main receptive / input regions
Large surface area for Large surface area for
receiving signals from receiving signals from
other neurons other neurons
Convey incoming messages Convey incoming messages
toward cell body toward cell body
Short Short- -distance signals are distance signals are
graded potentials graded potentials
Not action potentials Not action potentials
Nerve cell Nerve cell
processes. processes.
Axon = the axis cylinder, single, arising from Axon = the axis cylinder, single, arising from
the nerve cell body called Axon hillock the nerve cell body called Axon hillock
with smooth contour and are of uniform diameter with smooth contour and are of uniform diameter
more slender and straighter more slender and straighter
usually terminates in twig like branching usually terminates in twig like branching- -
telodendrites telodendrites
Telodendrites Telodendrites contact the contact the perikaryon perikaryon, dendrites , dendrites
oraxon oraxon of one or more neurons at synapses. of one or more neurons at synapses.
Boutons Boutons terminaux terminaux = small swellings at the axonal = small swellings at the axonal
twigs at the twigs at the terminationof terminationof a a myelinated myelinated axon. axon.
Boutons Boutons or passant = swellings at the synapses of or passant = swellings at the synapses of
terminal axons. terminal axons.
NEURON PROCESSES NEURON PROCESSES
Typical Axon Typical Axon
Single axon per neuron Single axon per neuron
Axon hillock of cell body narrows to form a slender Axon hillock of cell body narrows to form a slender
process of uniform diameter process of uniform diameter
Sometimes very short Sometimes very short
Sometimes very long Sometimes very long
e.g., axons controlling e.g., axons controlling
big toe are 3 big toe are 3 4 feet 4 feet
long long
NEURON PROCESSES NEURON PROCESSES
Typical Axon Typical Axon
Single axon may branch along length Single axon may branch along length
Axon collaterals extend from neurons at ~ 90 Axon collaterals extend from neurons at ~ 90
oo
angles angles
Usually branches Usually branches
profusely at end profusely at end
10,000 or more 10,000 or more
terminal branches terminal branches
is common is common
Distal endings Distal endings
termed axonal termed axonal
terminals terminals
NEURON PROCESSES NEURON PROCESSES
Typical Axon Typical Axon
Conducting component of neuron Conducting component of neuron
Generates nerve impulses Generates nerve impulses
Generated at axon hillock / axon junction in motor neurons Generated at axon hillock / axon junction in motor neurons
Trigger zone Trigger zone
Transmits nerve Transmits nerve
impulses away from impulses away from
cell body cell body
To axonal terminals To axonal terminals
NEURON PROCESSES NEURON PROCESSES
Typical Axon Typical Axon
Axonal terminals are Axonal terminals are secretory component secretory component of neuron of neuron
Sequence of events Sequence of events
Signal reaches terminals Signal reaches terminals
Membranes of vesicles fuse with Membranes of vesicles fuse with
plasma membrane plasma membrane
Axolemma Axolemma
Neurotransmitters released Neurotransmitters released
Neurotransmitters interact Neurotransmitters interact
with either other neurons with either other neurons
or effector cells or effector cells
Excite or inhibit Excite or inhibit
NEURON PROCESSES NEURON PROCESSES
Typical Axon Typical Axon
Contains most of the same organelles found in dendrites Contains most of the same organelles found in dendrites
and cell body and cell body
Lacks ER and Golgi apparatus Lacks ER and Golgi apparatus
NEURON PROCESSES NEURON PROCESSES
Typical Axon Typical Axon
Rely on cell body for some molecules Rely on cell body for some molecules
Rely on efficient transport mechanisms for delivery Rely on efficient transport mechanisms for delivery
Anterograde Anterograde movement toward axonal terminals movement toward axonal terminals
e.g., Mitochondria, e.g., Mitochondria,
membrane components, membrane components,
neurotransmitters or neurotransmitters or
enzymes required for enzymes required for
neurotransmitter neurotransmitter
synthesis, etc. synthesis, etc.
Retrograde Retrograde movement movement
toward cell body toward cell body
e.g., Organelles being e.g., Organelles being
returned for recycling returned for recycling
NEURON PROCESSES NEURON PROCESSES
Typical Axon Typical Axon
Some viruses and bacterial toxins use retrograde Some viruses and bacterial toxins use retrograde
transport to reach the cell body transport to reach the cell body
e.g., poliovirus, rabies virus, herpes simplex viruses, tetanus e.g., poliovirus, rabies virus, herpes simplex viruses, tetanus
toxin, etc. toxin, etc.
Such viruses can be Such viruses can be
used as vehicles for the used as vehicles for the
therapeutic delivery of therapeutic delivery of
engineered DNA engineered DNA
Gene therapy Gene therapy
MYELIN SHEATH MYELIN SHEATH
Whitish, fatty covering of many nerve fibers Whitish, fatty covering of many nerve fibers
Particularly those long are large in diameter Particularly those long are large in diameter
Protects and electrically insulates fibers Protects and electrically insulates fibers
Increases speed of nerve impulse transmission Increases speed of nerve impulse transmission
Some axons and all dendrites are unmyelinated Some axons and all dendrites are unmyelinated
MYELIN SHEATH MYELIN SHEATH
In PNS, myelin sheaths formed by Schwann cells In PNS, myelin sheaths formed by Schwann cells
Continually wrap around nerve Continually wrap around nerve
Cytoplasm gradually squeezed from intracellular space Cytoplasm gradually squeezed from intracellular space
Result is many concentric layers of plasma membrane Result is many concentric layers of plasma membrane
surrounding the axon surrounding the axon
These plasma membranes contain little protein These plasma membranes contain little protein
Some proteins present interlock adjacent membranes Some proteins present interlock adjacent membranes
Thickness depends on number of wrappings Thickness depends on number of wrappings
Nucleus and most of Nucleus and most of
cytoplasm exist as a bulge cytoplasm exist as a bulge
external to the myelin sheath external to the myelin sheath
Neurilemma Neurilemma
MYELIN SHEATH MYELIN SHEATH
Adjacent Schwann cells on axon do not touch Adjacent Schwann cells on axon do not touch
each other each other
Gaps in sheath occur at regular intervals Gaps in sheath occur at regular intervals
Nodes of Ranvier Nodes of Ranvier
a.k.a., Neurofibril a.k.a., Neurofibril
nodes nodes
Axon collaterals Axon collaterals
can emerge at can emerge at
these nodes these nodes
MYELIN SHEATH MYELIN SHEATH
CNS contains both myelinated and unmyelinated CNS contains both myelinated and unmyelinated
axons axons
Those long are large in diameter are typically Those long are large in diameter are typically
myelinated myelinated
Oligodendrocytes, not Schwann cells, form CNS Oligodendrocytes, not Schwann cells, form CNS
myelin sheaths myelin sheaths
Oligodendrocytes possess numerous processes that Oligodendrocytes possess numerous processes that
can coil around numerous (up to 60) axons at once can coil around numerous (up to 60) axons at once
CNS myelin sheaths lack a neurilemma CNS myelin sheaths lack a neurilemma
Myelination of Axons by Oligodendrocytes
MYELIN SHEATH MYELIN SHEATH
White matter White matter
Regions of the brain and spinal cord containing Regions of the brain and spinal cord containing
dense collections of myelinated fibers dense collections of myelinated fibers
Gray matter Gray matter
Regions of the brain and spinal cord containing Regions of the brain and spinal cord containing
mostly nerve cell bodies and unmyelinated fibers mostly nerve cell bodies and unmyelinated fibers
NEURON CLASSIFICATION NEURON CLASSIFICATION
Structural classification based upon number of Structural classification based upon number of
processes processes
Multipolar neurons Multipolar neurons
Bipolar neurons Bipolar neurons
Unipolar neurons Unipolar neurons
Functional classification based upon direction Functional classification based upon direction
nerve impulse travels nerve impulse travels
Sensory (afferent) neurons Sensory (afferent) neurons
Motor (efferent) neurons Motor (efferent) neurons
Interneurons (association neurons) Interneurons (association neurons)
NEURON CLASSIFICATION NEURON CLASSIFICATION
Structural Classification Structural Classification
Multipolar neurons Multipolar neurons
Three or more processes Three or more processes
Most common neuron Most common neuron
type in humans type in humans
(> 99% of neurons) (> 99% of neurons)
Bipolar neurons Bipolar neurons
Two processes Two processes axon and axon and
dendrite dendrite
Found only in some Found only in some
special sense organs special sense organs
e.g., retina of eye e.g., retina of eye
Act as receptor cells Act as receptor cells
Unipolar neurons Unipolar neurons
Single short process Single short process
Pseudounipolar neurons Pseudounipolar neurons
Originate as bipolar neurons Originate as bipolar neurons
Two processes converge and Two processes converge and
fuse fuse
Process divides into proximal Process divides into proximal
and distal branches and distal branches
Distal process often associated Distal process often associated
with a sensory receptor with a sensory receptor
Peripheral process Peripheral process
Central process enters CNS Central process enters CNS
Most are sensory neurons in Most are sensory neurons in
PNS PNS
Classification of Classification of
neurons by shape neurons by shape
NEURON CLASSIFICATION NEURON CLASSIFICATION
Functional Classification Functional Classification
Sensory (afferent) neurons Sensory (afferent) neurons
Transmit impulses Transmit impulses toward toward CNS CNS
From sensory receptors or internal From sensory receptors or internal
organs organs
Most are unipolar Most are unipolar
Cell bodies are located outside Cell bodies are located outside
CNS CNS
Motor (efferent) neurons Motor (efferent) neurons
Carry impulses Carry impulses away from away from CNS CNS
Toward effector organs Toward effector organs
Multipolar Multipolar
Cell bodies generally located in Cell bodies generally located in
the CNS the CNS
Interneurons Interneurons
a.k.a., association a.k.a., association
neurons neurons
Lie between motor and Lie between motor and
sensory neurons in sensory neurons in
neural pathways neural pathways
Shuttle signals through Shuttle signals through
CNS pathways where CNS pathways where
integration occurs integration occurs
> 99% of neurons in > 99% of neurons in
body body
Most are multipolar Most are multipolar
Most are confined Most are confined
within the CNS within the CNS
NEUROPHYSIOLOGY NEUROPHYSIOLOGY
Neurons are highly irritable Neurons are highly irritable
Responsive to stimuli Responsive to stimuli
Response to stimulus is action potential Response to stimulus is action potential
Electrical impulse carried along length of axon Electrical impulse carried along length of axon
Always the same regardless of stimulus Always the same regardless of stimulus
The underlying functional feature of the nervous The underlying functional feature of the nervous
system system
ION CHANNELS ION CHANNELS
Plasma membranes contain various ion channels Plasma membranes contain various ion channels
Passive channels (leakage channels) Passive channels (leakage channels)
Always open Always open
Active channels (gated channels) Active channels (gated channels)
Ligand Ligand- -gated channels gated channels
Open when specific chemical binds Open when specific chemical binds
Voltage Voltage- -gated channels gated channels
Open and close in response to membrane potential Open and close in response to membrane potential
Mechanically Mechanically- -gated channels gated channels
Open in response to physical deformation of receptor Open in response to physical deformation of receptor
e.g., touch and pressure receptors e.g., touch and pressure receptors
MEMBRANE POTENTIALS MEMBRANE POTENTIALS
A voltage exists across the plasma membrane A voltage exists across the plasma membrane
Due to separation of oppositely charged ions Due to separation of oppositely charged ions
Potential difference in a resting membrane is Potential difference in a resting membrane is
termed its termed its resting membrane potential resting membrane potential
~ ~ - -70 mV in a resting 70 mV in a resting
neuron neuron
Membrane is Membrane is
polarized polarized
MEMBRANE POTENTIALS MEMBRANE POTENTIALS
Neurons use changes in membrane potentials as Neurons use changes in membrane potentials as
signals signals
Used to receive, integrate, and send signals Used to receive, integrate, and send signals
Changes in membrane potentials produced by Changes in membrane potentials produced by
Anything changing membrane permeability to ions Anything changing membrane permeability to ions
Anything altering ion concentrations Anything altering ion concentrations
Two types of signals Two types of signals
Graded potentials Graded potentials
Short Short- -distance signals distance signals
Action potentials Action potentials
Long Long- -distance signals distance signals
ACTION POTENTIALS ACTION POTENTIALS
Conduction Velocities Conduction Velocities
Conduction velocities of neurons vary widely Conduction velocities of neurons vary widely
Rate of impulse propagation dependent upon Rate of impulse propagation dependent upon
Axon diameter Axon diameter
Larger axons conduct impulses faster Larger axons conduct impulses faster
Degree of myelination Degree of myelination
Myelin sheath dramatically increases rate of propagation Myelin sheath dramatically increases rate of propagation
Myelin acts as an insulator to prevent almost all leakage from Myelin acts as an insulator to prevent almost all leakage from
axon axon
ACTION POTENTIALS ACTION POTENTIALS
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Autoimmune disease mainly affecting young Autoimmune disease mainly affecting young
adults adults
Myelin sheaths in CNS are gradually destroyed Myelin sheaths in CNS are gradually destroyed
Interferes with impulse conduction Interferes with impulse conduction
Visual disturbances, muscle control problems, Visual disturbances, muscle control problems,
speech disturbances, etc. speech disturbances, etc.
Some modern treatments showing some promise Some modern treatments showing some promise
in delaying problems in delaying problems
NERVE FIBERS NERVE FIBERS
Classified based on Classified based on
Diameter Diameter
Degree of myelination Degree of myelination
Conduction speed Conduction speed
NERVE FIBER CLASSIFICATION NERVE FIBER CLASSIFICATION
Group A fibers Group A fibers
Largest diameter Largest diameter
Thick myelin sheaths Thick myelin sheaths
Conduct impulses at high speeds (> 300 mph) Conduct impulses at high speeds (> 300 mph)
Mostly somatic sensory ad motor fibers serving skin, skeletal Mostly somatic sensory ad motor fibers serving skin, skeletal
muscles, and joints muscles, and joints
Group B fibers Group B fibers
Intermediate diameter Intermediate diameter
Lightly myelinated Lightly myelinated
Transmit impulses at moderate speeds (40 mph) Transmit impulses at moderate speeds (40 mph)
Group C fibers Group C fibers
Smallest diameter Smallest diameter
Unmyelinated Unmyelinated
Transmit impulses comparatively slowly (2 mph or less) Transmit impulses comparatively slowly (2 mph or less)
Nerve Fiber Nerve Fiber
Classification Classification
General classification scheme (Erlanger General classification scheme (Erlanger- -Gasser): Gasser):
A fibers: Myelinated A fibers: Myelinated
Subtypes: Subtypes: , , , o, , , , o, some overlap in ranges some overlap in ranges
Fastest conducting and largest diameter Fastest conducting and largest diameter l20 l20 m/sec, m/sec, 20 ) 20 )
A often dropped: alpha motor neuron A often dropped: alpha motor neuron
B fibers: Slower myelinated (seldom used) B fibers: Slower myelinated (seldom used)
C fibers: Unmyelinated C fibers: Unmyelinated
Slower conducting than As and smallest diameter (0.5 m/sec, 0.5 Slower conducting than As and smallest diameter (0.5 m/sec, 0.5 ) )
Nerve Fiber Nerve Fiber
Classification Classification
Sensory nerve classification (Lloyd Sensory nerve classification (Lloyd- -Hunt): Hunt):
I, II, III fibers: Myelinated I, II, III fibers: Myelinated
Subtypes: Ia, Ib Subtypes: Ia, Ib
Fastest conducting and largest diameter Fastest conducting and largest diameter Ia Ia
IV fibers: Unmyelinated IV fibers: Unmyelinated
Slower conducting than IIIs and smallest diameter Slower conducting than IIIs and smallest diameter
SYNAPSE SYNAPSE
Junction mediating information transfer from one Junction mediating information transfer from one
neuron to another neuron or an effector cell neuron to another neuron or an effector cell
Axodendritic synapses Axodendritic synapses
Axonal endings Axonal endings dendrites of second neuron dendrites of second neuron
Axosomatic synapses Axosomatic synapses
Axonal endings Axonal endings cell body of neuron cell body of neuron
Presynaptic neuron Presynaptic neuron
Conducts impulses toward the synapse Conducts impulses toward the synapse
Postsynaptic neuron Postsynaptic neuron
Transmits impulse away from the synapse Transmits impulse away from the synapse
SYNAPSE TYPES SYNAPSE TYPES
Electrical Synapses Electrical Synapses
Less common than chemical synapses Less common than chemical synapses
Correspond to gap junctions found elsewhere Correspond to gap junctions found elsewhere
Cytoplasm of adjacent neurons connected through Cytoplasm of adjacent neurons connected through
protein channels protein channels
Ions flow directly between neurons Ions flow directly between neurons
Transmission across synapse is very rapid Transmission across synapse is very rapid
SYNAPSE TYPES SYNAPSE TYPES
Chemical Synapses Chemical Synapses
Specialized for release & reception of Specialized for release & reception of
neurotransmitters neurotransmitters
Two parts Two parts
Axonal terminal of presynaptic neuron Axonal terminal of presynaptic neuron
Contains numerous synaptic vesicles filled with Contains numerous synaptic vesicles filled with
neurotransmitter molecules neurotransmitter molecules
Neurotransmitter receptor region Neurotransmitter receptor region
Present on dendrite or cell body of postsynaptic neuron Present on dendrite or cell body of postsynaptic neuron
Separated by synaptic cleft Separated by synaptic cleft
Remember this stuff in muscles? Remember this stuff in muscles?
SYNAPSE SYNAPSE
Nerve impulse reaches axonal terminal Nerve impulse reaches axonal terminal
Voltage Voltage- -gated Ca gated Ca
2+ 2+
channels open in axon channels open in axon
Ca Ca
2+ 2+
enters presynaptic neuron enters presynaptic neuron
Neurotransmitter is released via exocytosis Neurotransmitter is released via exocytosis
Vesicles fuse with axonal membrane Vesicles fuse with axonal membrane
Neurotransmitter binds to postsynaptic receptors Neurotransmitter binds to postsynaptic receptors
Ion channels open in Ion channels open in
postsynaptic membrane postsynaptic membrane
Result is excitation or Result is excitation or
inhibition inhibition
SYNAPSE SYNAPSE
Binding of neurotransmitter to its receptor is Binding of neurotransmitter to its receptor is
reversible reversible
Permeability affected as long as neurotransmitter Permeability affected as long as neurotransmitter
is bound to its receptor is bound to its receptor
Neurotransmitters do not persist in the synaptic Neurotransmitters do not persist in the synaptic
cleft cleft
Degraded by enzymes associated with postsynaptic Degraded by enzymes associated with postsynaptic
membrane membrane
Reuptake by astrocytes or presynaptic terminal Reuptake by astrocytes or presynaptic terminal
Diffusion of neurotransmitters away from synapse Diffusion of neurotransmitters away from synapse
NEUROTRANSMITTERS NEUROTRANSMITTERS
More than fifty neurotransmitters identified More than fifty neurotransmitters identified
Most neurons make two or more Most neurons make two or more
Can be released singly or together Can be released singly or together
Classification by Structure Classification by Structure
Acetylcholine (ACh) Acetylcholine (ACh)
Biogenic amines Biogenic amines
Amino acids Amino acids
Peptides Peptides
ATP ATP
Dissolved gases Dissolved gases
Classification by Function Classification by Function
Excitatory/Inhibitory Excitatory/Inhibitory
Direct/Indirect Direct/Indirect
NEURAL INTEGRATION NEURAL INTEGRATION
Neurons function in groups, not singly Neurons function in groups, not singly
These various components must interact These various components must interact
Multiple levels of neural integration Multiple levels of neural integration
NEURONAL POOLS NEURONAL POOLS
Neurons in CNS are organized into pools Neurons in CNS are organized into pools
Functional groups Functional groups
Integrate incoming information Integrate incoming information
Forward processed information Forward processed information
NEURONAL POOLS NEURONAL POOLS
Simple Neuronal Pool Simple Neuronal Pool
Incoming fiber branches profusely upon entering pool Incoming fiber branches profusely upon entering pool
EPSPs induced in multiple postsynaptic neurons EPSPs induced in multiple postsynaptic neurons
EPSPs exceed threshold in some neurons EPSPs exceed threshold in some neurons
Mainly those with multiple synaptic contacts Mainly those with multiple synaptic contacts
EPSPs do not exceed EPSPs do not exceed
threshold in some threshold in some
neurons neurons
Mainly those with Mainly those with
fewer synaptic contacts fewer synaptic contacts
Some close to threshold Some close to threshold
Facilitated zone Facilitated zone
TYPES OF CIRCUITS TYPES OF CIRCUITS
Patterns of synaptic connections in neuronal Patterns of synaptic connections in neuronal
pools are called circuits pools are called circuits
Determine neuronal pools functional capabilities Determine neuronal pools functional capabilities
Four basic circuit patterns Four basic circuit patterns
Diverging circuits Diverging circuits
Converging circuits Converging circuits
Reverberating (oscillating) circuits Reverberating (oscillating) circuits
Parallel after Parallel after- -discharge circuits discharge circuits
TYPES OF CIRCUITS TYPES OF CIRCUITS
Diverging (Amplifying) Circuit Diverging (Amplifying) Circuit
One incoming fiber triggers responses in ever One incoming fiber triggers responses in ever- -
increasing numbers of neurons increasing numbers of neurons
Common in both sensory and motor systems Common in both sensory and motor systems
TYPES OF CIRCUITS TYPES OF CIRCUITS
Converging Circuits Converging Circuits
Pool receives inputs from several neurons Pool receives inputs from several neurons
Circuit has funneling effect Circuit has funneling effect
Common in sensory Common in sensory
and motor systems and motor systems
TYPES OF CIRCUITS TYPES OF CIRCUITS
Reverberating (Oscillating) Circuits Reverberating (Oscillating) Circuits
Incoming signal travels through chain of neurons Incoming signal travels through chain of neurons
Each neuron makes synapses with neurons Each neuron makes synapses with neurons
upstream in the pathway upstream in the pathway
Involved in rhythmic activities (e.g., breathing) Involved in rhythmic activities (e.g., breathing)
TYPES OF CIRCUITS TYPES OF CIRCUITS
Parallel After Parallel After- -Discharge Circuits Discharge Circuits
Incoming fiber stimulated parallel neuron arrays Incoming fiber stimulated parallel neuron arrays
Parallel arrays ultimately stimulate a common Parallel arrays ultimately stimulate a common
output cell output cell
Create prolonged burst of impulses Create prolonged burst of impulses
Involved in complex Involved in complex
mental processing mental processing
PROCESSING PATTERNS PROCESSING PATTERNS
Serial input processing Serial input processing
Input travels along one pathway to a specific Input travels along one pathway to a specific
destination destination
All All- -or or- -nothing function of system nothing function of system
e.g., reflexes e.g., reflexes
Parallel input processing Parallel input processing
Inputs are segregated into multiple pathways Inputs are segregated into multiple pathways
Integrated in different CNS regions Integrated in different CNS regions
Different circuits do different things with input Different circuits do different things with input
Not repetitious Not repetitious
MICROSCOPIC STRUCTURE MICROSCOPIC STRUCTURE
OF THE CEREBRAL CORTEX OF THE CEREBRAL CORTEX
The cerebral cortex contain 3 main types of neuron The cerebral cortex contain 3 main types of neuron
1. Pyramidal cells 1. Pyramidal cells
triangular shape triangular shape
- - apical dendrites reaching from the upper end towards apical dendrites reaching from the upper end towards
the cortical surface the cortical surface
- - basilar dendrites extending horizontally from the cell basilar dendrites extending horizontally from the cell
body body
2. 2. Stellate Stellate neurons neurons
- - star shape star shape
- - dendrites extending in all directions dendrites extending in all directions
3. 3. Fusiform Fusiform neurons neurons
- -found in the deeper layers found in the deeper layers
- - large dendrites ascend towards the cortical surface large dendrites ascend towards the cortical surface
The axons of the pyramidal and fusiform neurons form The axons of the pyramidal and fusiform neurons form
the projection and association fibers ; with the large the projection and association fibers ; with the large
layer V pyramidal neurons projecting their axons to the layer V pyramidal neurons projecting their axons to the
spinal cord and brainstem spinal cord and brainstem
Smaller layers II and III pyramidal cells send Smaller layers II and III pyramidal cells send
association axons to other cortical areas association axons to other cortical areas
Stellate neurons are interneurons whose axons remain Stellate neurons are interneurons whose axons remain
within the cortex within the cortex
LAYERS OF THE CEREBRAL LAYERS OF THE CEREBRAL
CORTEX CORTEX
1. 1. Molecular Molecular layer / layer I layer / layer I
- -outermost layer outermost layer
- -contains non contains non- -specific afferent specific afferent fibers fibers that come from within the cortex or from the that come from within the cortex or from the
thalamus thalamus
2. External granular / layer II 2. External granular / layer II
- -dense layer of small cells dense layer of small cells
3. External pyramidal / layer III 3. External pyramidal / layer III
- -containing pyramidal cells frequently in row formation containing pyramidal cells frequently in row formation
4. Internal granular / layer IV 4. Internal granular / layer IV
- -thin layer with cells similar to those of external granular layer thin layer with cells similar to those of external granular layer
- -receives afferent receives afferent fibers fibers from the thalamus from the thalamus
5. Internal pyramidal / layer V 5. Internal pyramidal / layer V
- -containing fewer pyramidal cells but larger in sizes than those of external containing fewer pyramidal cells but larger in sizes than those of external
pyramidal layer pyramidal layer
- -cells project to distal structure ( cells project to distal structure (eg eg. Spinal cord, brainstem) . Spinal cord, brainstem)
6. 6. Fusiform Fusiform or multiform / layer VI or multiform / layer VI
- - irregular irregular fusiform fusiform cells whose axons enter the adjacent white matter cells whose axons enter the adjacent white matter
Basal ganglia Basal ganglia
- - masses of gray matter deep within the masses of gray matter deep within the
cerebral hemispheres cerebral hemispheres
- - plays an essential functional role in motor plays an essential functional role in motor
control. control.
Parts of Basal ganglia: Parts of Basal ganglia:
1. 1. Caudate nucleus Caudate nucleus
2. 2. Putamen Putamen
3. 3. Globus Globus pallidus pallidus
Sheets of Sheets of myelinated myelinated fibers fibers of internal capsule of internal capsule
run between the nuclei imparting a striped run between the nuclei imparting a striped
appearance thus the name corpus striatum appearance thus the name corpus striatum
Fastigeal Fastigeal nucleus nucleus
- - Most medial; contains small and large Most medial; contains small and large multipolar multipolar
neurons neurons
Globose Globose nucleus nucleus
- - lateral to lateral to fastigeal fastigeal and medial to and medial to emboliform emboliform contains contains
small and large small and large multipolar multipolar neurons neurons
Emboliform Emboliform nucleus nucleus wedge shaped mass wedge shaped mass
- - Located close to the Located close to the hilus hilus of dentate nucleus of dentate nucleus
- -composed mostly of large composed mostly of large multipolar multipolar neurns neurns
Dentate nucleus Dentate nucleus- - largest and most lateral largest and most lateral
crumpled bag appearance; large crumpled bag appearance; large multipolar multipolar neurons neurons
Cerebellar cortex
Molecular layer : contains
1-Cells : molecular cells (stellate
cells) & basket cells.
2-Nerve Fibres :
a- dendrites of Purkinje cells
(arborisations).
b-axons of granule cells. (
bifurcate to produce 2-parallel
fibres , oriented along long axis
of folium).
c-ending of climbing fibers.
Purkinje cell layer : it is
formed of one layer (unicellular) of
large flask-shaped purkinje cells.
Their arborisations are at right
angles to long axis to folium.
Granular layer : it is formed of
small granule cells & ending of
mossy fibres.
High mag of the Purkinje Cells of the
Cerebellum
Spinal cord Spinal cord
surrounded by Pia Matter which extends into the surrounded by Pia Matter which extends into the
anterior median fissure. anterior median fissure.
Centrally is an H Centrally is an H- -shaped area of gray matter shaped area of gray matter
compose of nerve cells. compose of nerve cells.
The limbs of the H are called anterior and The limbs of the H are called anterior and
posterior horn. The central canal lies at the posterior horn. The central canal lies at the
horizontal bar of the H. horizontal bar of the H.
The white matter is divided by into longitudinal The white matter is divided by into longitudinal
columns by the FUNICULI. columns by the FUNICULI.
Zone of Lissauer = small area containing fine Zone of Lissauer = small area containing fine
nerve cells, between the tips of the posterior horn nerve cells, between the tips of the posterior horn
and the surface of the cord. and the surface of the cord.
Peripheral nerves Peripheral nerves
composed of bundles of nerve fibers are held together by composed of bundles of nerve fibers are held together by
connective tissue. connective tissue.
Appear as white due to Appear as white due to myelinated myelinated fibers. fibers.
Epineurium Epineurium = capsule of connective tissue sheath around = capsule of connective tissue sheath around
a nerve, composed of fibroblasts and a nerve, composed of fibroblasts and collagenous collagenous fibers, fibers,
longitudinal and elastic fibers, major blood vessels. longitudinal and elastic fibers, major blood vessels.
Fascicles = bundles within an Fascicles = bundles within an epineurium epineurium..
Perineurium Perineurium= connective tissue sheath around each = connective tissue sheath around each
fascicle, formed by concentric layers of flattened fascicle, formed by concentric layers of flattened
fibroblast fibroblast- -like cells one cell thick. It is like cells one cell thick. It is continous continous with the with the
pia pia arachnoid arachnoid membrane of the CNS. Provides a barrier membrane of the CNS. Provides a barrier
to the passage of materials into or out of the nerve to the passage of materials into or out of the nerve
fascicle. fascicle.
Endoneurium Endoneurium= strands of delicate connective tissue = strands of delicate connective tissue
extending around and between individual nerve fibers. extending around and between individual nerve fibers.
Nerve 10x Nerve 10x
NERVE 40X NERVE 40X
Ganglia Ganglia
a collection of nerve cell bodies located outside the a collection of nerve cell bodies located outside the
central nervous system. central nervous system.
Types of ganglia: Types of ganglia:
Craniospinal Craniospinal ganglia ( sensory) ganglia ( sensory)
Autonomic nerve system (visceral, motor ganglia) Autonomic nerve system (visceral, motor ganglia)
vary in size and shape with few nerve cell bodies to vary in size and shape with few nerve cell bodies to
large one up to 50,000 or more cells. large one up to 50,000 or more cells.
Satellite cells = capsule of single layer of Satellite cells = capsule of single layer of cuboidal cuboidal
cells cells
Fish eye nucleus Fish eye nucleus
Low magnification of a Ganglion
Spinal Ganglion w/ cell bodies and nerve
fibers
Cell Body w/ Nissl and surrounding
Satellite Cells
Sympathetic ganglion w/ lipofuschin
pigment
Membranes and vessels of Membranes and vessels of
CNS CNS
Dura matter or Dura matter or pachymenninx pachymenninx = fibrous tough and = fibrous tough and
inelastic, lines the cranium and attached firmly to the inelastic, lines the cranium and attached firmly to the
bone. Separated from the bone by an epidural or bone. Separated from the bone by an epidural or
extradural extradural space. space.
Composed of the: Composed of the:
Falx Falx cerebrii cerebrii= separate the 2 cerebral hemisphere = separate the 2 cerebral hemisphere
Tentorium Tentorium cerebelli cerebelli= horizontal, between the occipital lobes of = horizontal, between the occipital lobes of
cerebrum above and below the cerebellum. cerebrum above and below the cerebellum.
Falx Falx cerebelli cerebelli= between = between cerebellar cerebellar hemispheres hemispheres
Membranes and Membranes and
vessels.. vessels..
Arachnoid membrane = the middle layer, Arachnoid membrane = the middle layer,
composed of fine cobweb like strands of composed of fine cobweb like strands of
interlacing reticular fibers. The thin, delicate, interlacing reticular fibers. The thin, delicate,
nonvascular membrane that lines the dura. nonvascular membrane that lines the dura.
Has a space subarachnoid spacebetween Has a space subarachnoid spacebetween
trabeculae trabeculae
Membranes and Membranes and
vessels. vessels.
Pia matter = the innermost layer, with blood vessels Pia matter = the innermost layer, with blood vessels
supplying the CNS, single layered leptomeninnx or supplying the CNS, single layered leptomeninnx or
leptomeninges.The deeper layer Intima pia close leptomeninges.The deeper layer Intima pia close
meshwork of fine reticular and elastic fibers adherent meshwork of fine reticular and elastic fibers adherent
to the underlying nervous tissue. Contains branches to the underlying nervous tissue. Contains branches
of the internal carotid and vertebral artery into the of the internal carotid and vertebral artery into the
substance of CNS. substance of CNS.
Blood brain barrier Blood brain barrier
the close investment of blood capillaries in the CNS by the close investment of blood capillaries in the CNS by
neuroglial cells and their process. neuroglial cells and their process.
It is now know however, that there is free communication It is now know however, that there is free communication
between subarachnoid space and intercellular spaces between subarachnoid space and intercellular spaces
allowing passage of macromolecules between cerebrospinal allowing passage of macromolecules between cerebrospinal
fluid and neural tissues. fluid and neural tissues.
It is the result of the occluding junctions between endothelial It is the result of the occluding junctions between endothelial
cells and brain capillaries. cells and brain capillaries.
Choroid plexus & Choroid plexus &
CSF: CSF:
Spaces filled with CSF: Spaces filled with CSF:
pia arachnoid space pia arachnoid space
subarachnoid space subarachnoid space
= act as water cushion, fills the brain ventricles = act as water cushion, fills the brain ventricles
and the central canal of the spinal cord.0 and the central canal of the spinal cord.0
CSF characteristics CSF characteristics
It is a clear colorless liquid, low specific gravity 1.004 It is a clear colorless liquid, low specific gravity 1.004
to 1.007. to 1.007.
Contents of CSF = potassium, sodium, Contents of CSF = potassium, sodium, chloriod chloriod, some , some
glucose and some amount of protein, few lymphocytes. glucose and some amount of protein, few lymphocytes.
Secretions = occurs at the choroid plexus in the roof of Secretions = occurs at the choroid plexus in the roof of
the 3rd and 4th ventricle, medial wall of the parts of the the 3rd and 4th ventricle, medial wall of the parts of the
lateral ventricle. lateral ventricle.
Produced at 0.5 liters per day. Produced at 0.5 liters per day.
Cover layer of the choroid plexus is a single layer of Cover layer of the choroid plexus is a single layer of
columnar columnar ependymal ependymal cells with apical. Bulbous cells with apical. Bulbous
microvilli microvilli..
CSF pathway CSF pathway
Choroid plexus, lateral ventricle Choroid plexus, lateral ventricle foramen of foramen of
monroe monroe - ->>3rd 3rd - ->>iter iter- -> 4th ventricle > 4th ventricle foramina foramina
at the roof of the 4th ventricle at the roof of the 4th ventricle - ->>
( median foramen of ( median foramen of Magendie Magendie, lateral foramina , lateral foramina
of of Luschka Luschka subarachnoid space subarachnoid space arachnoid arachnoid
villi villi absorbed mainly into the cranial venous absorbed mainly into the cranial venous
sinuses sinuses
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