LESSON 5
THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM
Section I. BASIC CONCEPTS OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM
5-1. TYPES OF NERVOUS TISSUES
There are two types of nervous tissues--the neurons (nerve cells) and glia
(neuroglia). The neuron is the basic structural unit of the nervous system. The glia are
cells of supporting tissue for the nervous system. There are several different types of
glia, but their general function is support (physical, nutritive, and so forth.).
5-2. SPECIALIZATION
Nervous tissues are specialized to:
a. Receive stimuli. Cells receiving stimuli are said to be "irritable" (as are all
living cells somewhat).
b.
Transmit information.
c.
"Store" information.
MD0804
5-3