Chapter 48, Problem 48.1CR

How would severing an axon affect the flow of information m a neuron?

Summary Introduction

To determine: The way in which severing an axon could affect the flow of information in a neuron.

Introduction:

A neuron forms the basic structure of the nervous system, which receives and transmits information. A neuron is composed of a cell body with highly branched extensions known as ‘dendrites’ and an extension called ‘axon’.

Explanation of Solution

Dendrites receive information from adjacent neurons. The axon transfers the information to the other cells at a junction known as the synapse. Chemical messengers, called neurotransmitters, (often present in the synapse) pass information from the neurons to the cells. Hence, when the axon is severed, the transfer of electrical impulses to the effector organs is disturbed. This may lead to the paralysis of the part of the body supplied by that axon. There is a chance for the damaged axon to be regenerated if it is present in the peripheral nervous system. Those that are present in the spinal cord and brain cannot be regenerated.

Conclusion

Therefore, the severing of the axon can lead to an interruption in the flow of nerve impulses from an affector neuron to a motor neuron or a effector cell, which may be muscle or other tissues. This may result in paralysis.