The word "neuroplasm", which refers to the substance within nerve cells, is spelled as /njʊərə(ʊ)plæz(ə)m/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The "neuro-" prefix indicates something related to nerves, while "-plasm" refers to a substance or material within a cell. The "u" sound in "neuro" is followed by the "ə" sound, representing the schwa sound, which is often used in unstressed syllables. The "p" and "l" sounds are pronounced separately, followed by the "æ" sound in "plasm" and the final "m" sound.
Neuroplasm refers to the fluid or gel-like material that composes the cytoplasm of nerve cells or neurons. It is the substance within the cell membrane that fills the space between the nucleus and the cell membrane itself. Neuroplasm consists of various components, including enzymes, structural proteins, organelles, and other molecules required for the cell's metabolic activities and functioning.
This dynamic substance is essential for the proper functioning of neurons as it provides a medium for the transport and movement of various materials, such as nutrients, ions, and neurotransmitters, within the cell. Neuroplasm also plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of the neuron and supporting its electrical signaling processes.
Furthermore, neuroplasm exhibits a high degree of plasticity, which refers to its ability to change and adapt in response to environmental stimuli and neural activity. This property enables neurons to undergo structural modifications and form new connections with other neurons, thus facilitating learning and memory processes in the brain.
Overall, neuroplasm is a vital component of nerve cells, facilitating their biochemical processes, supporting electrical signaling, and enabling synaptic plasticity. Understanding the properties and functions of neuroplasm is crucial for comprehending the intricate workings of the nervous system and the complex mechanisms that underlie various cognitive processes and brain functions.
The protoplasm of a nerve-cell.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "neuroplasm" is composed of two parts: "neuro" and "plasm".
The term "neuro" is derived from the Greek word "neuron", meaning "sinew, tendon, nerve". It came into English via the French word "nevre", which meant "nerve".
The term "plasm" is derived from the Greek word "plasma", meaning "something formed or molded". It came into English via the Latin word "plasma", which referred to a bodily fluid or a formed substance.
Combining these two roots, "neuroplasm" refers to the substance that makes up the nervous system or nerve tissue. It was coined in the late 19th century, with "plasm" denoting the material present in the nerve cells.