Question

1. Explain why the following scenarios would negatively impact neuronal functioning?

a) Severe damage to the myelin sheath caused by a viral infection.

b) Degenerative condition that exclusively affects the oligodendrocytes.

c) Structural damage to the dendrites.

d) Extensive damage to the Nissl’s substance.

2. Briefly describe the microscopic morphology and major function of the following cells found in nervous tissue?

1. Microglia
2. Astrocytes
3. Multipolar neuron

3. List the structural elements that may be found in the dorsal root ganglion?

4. What do you understand by the following histological components of nervous tissue?

a) Neuropil

b) Leptomeninges

c) Epindymal cells

d) Choroid plexus

e) Dura

Answer 1

1. Explain why the following scenarios would negatively impact neuronal functioning?

a) Severe damage to the myelin sheath caused by a viral infection.- If myelin sheath is damaged then the nerve impulse transmission will become slow as it assists in faster conduction of nerve impulse.

b) Degenerative condition that exclusively affects the oligodendrocytes.- They protect the myelin sheath. If they are affected then impulse transmission will slow down.

c) Structural damage to the dendrites.- Dendrites help in receiving the impulse from other neurons. If dendrites are affected then a neuron will not be able to receive the impulse.

d) Extensive damage to the Nissl’s substance. These are the long chain of ribosomes present in the cell body. They help in protein synthesis. If they are damages then proteins in the neurons will not be synthesised.