Question

Which of the following cells are found in neural tissue? (a) Neuron (b) Neuroglia (c) Both (a) and (b) (d) None of these

Short answer

The cells found in neural tissue are both neuron and neuroglia. Therefore, the correct answer is option (c).

Step-by-step solution

Identification

Identify the types of cells that can be found in neural tissue. According to established biological knowledge, there are two types: neurons and neuroglia (or glial cells).

Comparison

Compare the identified cell types with the exercise options given. In this case, both 'neuron' and 'neuroglia' appear in the provided answers.

Answer Selection

Based on the comparison made in step 2, select the correct answer. As both 'neuron' and 'neuroglia' are correct and are included in option (c), this is the answer to the exercise.

Key concepts

Neurons

Neurons are the core components of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. They are specialized cells that transmit messages throughout the body.
Neurons communicate via electrical impulses and are central to nervous system function. Each neuron is composed of three main parts:

• Cell body (or Soma): This is where the nucleus resides and processes important functions to keep the neuron alive.
• Dendrites: These are branched projections that receive electrochemical signals from other neurons.
• Axon: A long projection that transmits signals away from the neuron to other neurons or muscles.

Neurons are critical for brain functions such as thinking, learning, and memory.
Damage to neurons can result in disorders like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease.

Neuroglia

Neuroglia, also known simply as glial cells, are the supporting cells in neural tissue.
They play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis, providing support and protection for neurons. Here are the main types of glial cells:

• Astrocytes: These star-shaped cells facilitate nutrient transport and blood flow to neurons.
• Oligodendrocytes: Found in the central nervous system, these cells produce myelin sheaths that insulate axons.
• Microglia: These cells act as the primary immune defense in the central nervous system.
• Schwann Cells: Similar to oligodendrocytes but found in the peripheral nervous system, they support nerve regeneration.

Neuroglia are critical for healthy neural environments and play a role in neural repair and development.

Cell Types in Neural Tissue

Neural tissue is comprised of distinct cell types that each serve unique functions.
The primary cells include neurons and neuroglia, which work together to create a functioning nervous system. When examining neural tissue, the following cell types are significant:

• Neurons: As the communicators of the nervous system, they process and transmit information through electrical and chemical signals.
• Astrocytes: These contribute to the blood-brain barrier and regulate ion concentration. They play a role in repairing the brain and spinal cord after traumatic injuries.
• Oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells: Both are involved in producing myelin, which insulates neurons to facilitate faster signal transmission.
• Microglia: Responsible for providing immune defense in neural tissue.

Each cell type in neural tissue is crucial for maintaining the nervous system's structural integrity and functionality.