Dendrite

Dendrite

A dendrite is a short branched extension of a nerve cell, along which impulses received from other cells at synapses are transmitted to the cell body. Dendrites are the segments of the neuron that receive stimulation in order for the cell to become active. They conduct electrical messages to the neuron cell body for the cell to function.

Structure

Dendrites are made up of a series of segments called dendritic segments. Each dendrite is covered in thousands of synapses, which receive signals from other neurons. The dendritic tree wraps around the cell body and extends out in a complex branching pattern.

Function

The primary function of a dendrite is to receive and process information from other cells through the synapses. This information is then passed on to the cell body, which determines whether the information will be passed along to other neurons. Dendrites play a crucial role in integrating these synaptic inputs and in determining the extent to which action potentials are produced by the neuron.

Clinical significance

Dendrites play a crucial role in many neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia. Changes in the structure and function of dendrites and synapses can lead to cognitive and memory impairments.

See also

• Neuron
• Axon
• Synapse
• Neurology

References

• 
  Anatomy of a neuron
• 
  CA1 pyramidal cells with synapses
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  Complete neuron cell diagram