Structure and function of neurones 5.3.2
Function of neurones
Motor neurones
Carry an action potential from central nervous system to an effector
Sensory neurones
Carry the action potential from a sensory receptor to the CNS
Relay neurones
Connect sensory and motor neurones
Structure of neurones
Specialised features
o Very long So can transmit action potential over long distance
o many gated ion channels to control entry or exit of Na + K ions
o Na/ K pumps use ATP to actively transport Na ions out and K ions into the cell
o Neurones maintain potential difference across cell surface membrane
o Cell body contains many mitochondria
o Numerous dendrites to connect neurones to carry impulses
o Surrounded by fatty layer (myelin sheath) to insulate the cell from electrical activity
Function of neurones
Motor neurones
Carry an action potential from central nervous system to an effector
Sensory neurones
Carry the action potential from a sensory receptor to the CNS
Relay neurones
Connect sensory and motor neurones
Structure of neurones
Specialised features
o Very long So can transmit action potential over long distance
o many gated ion channels to control entry or exit of Na + K ions
o Na/ K pumps use ATP to actively transport Na ions out and K ions into the cell
o Neurones maintain potential difference across cell surface membrane
o Cell body contains many mitochondria
o Numerous dendrites to connect neurones to carry impulses
o Surrounded by fatty layer (myelin sheath) to insulate the cell from electrical activity
