Final answer:
Nervous tissue contains neurons, which are responsible for electrical communication, and glial cells that support and protect neurons. Neurons transmit signals throughout the body, whereas glial cells maintain the environment necessary for optimal neuron function.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nervous tissue consists of two general types of cells: neurons and glial cells. Neurons are the primary communicators in the nervous system, responsible for transmitting electrical signals and releasing chemical messengers to other cells.
Glial cells, which include a variety of cell types like astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia in the CNS, and Schwann cells and satellite cells in the PNS, serve as the supportive framework, maintaining an optimal environment for neuron function and contributing to the protection and nourishment of neurons.
Neurons form complex networks for computation and communication within the nervous system, whereas glial cells ensure that neurons remain healthy and are able to send signals effectively. Understanding the functions and interactions between these cells is essential for grasping the workings of the nervous system.