Brain cells

Brain Cells

Brain cells, also known as neurons and glial cells, are the fundamental units of the brain and nervous system. They are responsible for processing and transmitting information throughout the body. The human brain contains approximately 86 billion neurons, each connected to thousands of other neurons, forming a complex network that underlies all brain functions.

Types of Brain Cells

There are two main types of brain cells: neurons and glial cells.

Neurons

Neurons are the primary signaling cells of the brain. They are specialized to transmit information via electrical and chemical signals. A typical neuron consists of a cell body (soma), dendrites, and an axon.

• Cell Body (Soma): Contains the nucleus and is responsible for maintaining the cell's health.
• Dendrites: Branch-like structures that receive messages from other neurons.
• Axon: A long, slender projection that transmits signals to other neurons or muscles.

Neurons communicate with each other at junctions called synapses, where the axon terminal of one neuron meets the dendrite of another.

Glial Cells

Glial cells, or neuroglia, provide support and protection for neurons. They are more numerous than neurons and play critical roles in maintaining homeostasis, forming myelin, and providing support and protection for neurons.

• Astrocytes: Star-shaped cells that provide structural support, regulate blood flow, and maintain the blood-brain barrier.
• Oligodendrocytes: Produce myelin in the central nervous system, which insulates axons and speeds up signal transmission.
• Microglia: Act as the brain's immune cells, protecting against pathogens and clearing debris.
• Ependymal Cells: Line the ventricles of the brain and the central canal of the spinal cord, involved in the production of cerebrospinal fluid.

Function of Brain Cells

Brain cells are involved in every aspect of brain function, from basic life-sustaining processes to complex cognitive tasks. Neurons are responsible for:

• Sensory processing: Receiving and interpreting sensory information from the environment.
• Motor control: Initiating and coordinating movement.
• Cognition: Enabling thought, learning, and memory.
• Emotion: Processing and regulating emotional responses.

Glial cells support these functions by maintaining the environment in which neurons operate, providing nutrients, and removing waste products.

Neurogenesis

Neurogenesis is the process by which new neurons are formed in the brain. This process occurs primarily during development but continues in certain brain regions, such as the hippocampus, throughout adulthood. Neurogenesis is thought to play a role in learning, memory, and mood regulation.

Also see

• Nervous system
• Central nervous system
• Peripheral nervous system
• Neurotransmitter
• Synapse
• Neuroplasticity