PSYC 100 Chapter 3: Chapter 3 biological foundations part 1.docx

• School: Simon Fraser University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 100
• Professor: Russell Day

Document Summary

Neurons basic building blocks of nervous system: comprises of a cell body, dendrites, and an axon. Cell body/soma keep neuron alive with biochemical structures, and its nucleus has genetic info that dictates how the cell should develop and function. Dendrites small branchlike fibers that take messages from neurons and send them on to the cell body. Axon extends from one side of the cell body, and sends electrical impulses away from cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands. Glial cells surround neurons and hold them in place. Also manufacture nutrient chemicals that neurons need, form the myelin sheath around some axons, absorb toxins and waste that might damage neurons. Blood-brain barrier prevents substances, like toxins, from entering the brain. Due to the distribution of positively and negatively charged neurons in and out of the neuron, the neuron has an electrical resting potential when it is at rest.