1. Neurons: These are the functional units of the nervous system, responsible for transmitting electrical signals throughout the body. They have a unique structure with:
* Cell body (soma): Contains the nucleus and other organelles.
* Axon: A long, slender projection that carries signals away from the cell body.
* Dendrites: Branching extensions that receive signals from other neurons.
2. Glial Cells (Neuroglia): These are non-neuronal cells that provide support and protection to neurons. They are essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system and include several types:
* Astrocytes: Provide structural support, regulate the blood-brain barrier, and maintain the chemical environment of the brain.
* Oligodendrocytes (in the central nervous system) and Schwann cells (in the peripheral nervous system): Form myelin sheaths around axons, which insulate and speed up signal transmission.
* Microglia: Act as immune cells of the nervous system, engulfing and destroying pathogens and cellular debris.
* Ependymal cells: Line the ventricles of the brain and central canal of the spinal cord, producing cerebrospinal fluid.
So, when talking about cell types in nervous tissue, you'll often hear about neurons and glial cells, each playing crucial roles in the complex processes of the nervous system.