Schwann cells

Examine the preparation of isolated, teased-apart nerve fibers (slide 151).

• Identify Schwann cell nuclei and nodes of Ranvier (Figs. 9-23 and 9-26).
• Study the diagrams and electron micrographs in Figs. 9-21 through 9-25 and understand the relationship between the axon and the myelin sheath wrappings in myelinated nerve fibers.
• Click the image for an expanded view.

What exactly is "myelin"?

How are Schwann cells associated with both myelinated and non-myelinated fibers of peripheral nerves?

Synapses and Sensory Receptors are very difficult to demonstrate in routinely prepared microscope slides. We will study them primarily in electron micrographs and other figures in Junqueira, although certain receptors will be seen in slides later in the course.

Examine the electron micrographs and diagrams of synapses in the CNS (Figs. 9-6 and 9-7) and a motor end plate (or neuromuscular junction) (Fig. 10-13).

• Identify synaptic vesicles in the axon's terminal bouton, synaptic vesicles, presynaptic membrane, and postsynaptic membrane.

Draw all the parts of a typical synapse, labeling the features listed above.

Tell me more about sensory receptors.