Alongside the neurons of the brain, a complex network of supporting cells known as glial cells is necessary to maintain the proper functioning of the central nervous system.1,3,6 Glia are non-neuronal cells in the nervous system that support neural function, and account for around one half the volume of cells in the nervous system.1-3Glial cells are divided into macroglia – which include astrocytes, oligodendrocytes – and microglia.1,3,6
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An understanding of the resting membrane potential and how action potentials are generated is key to understanding how information is transmitted in the nervous system.
Neurons can be broadly classified into two functional types, excitatory and inhibitory, based on their neurotransmitters. The balance between excitation and inhibition in the brain is a fundamental principle of neural circuit function.
Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that enable communication between neurons by binding to specific receptors on postsynaptic cells.