Neurons
Neurons
Neurons (pronounced: /ˈnʊərɒn, ˈnjʊərɒn/), also known as nerve cells, are the primary cells of the nervous system. The term "neuron" is derived from the Greek word "νεῦρον" (neûron), meaning "sinew" or "nerve".
Structure
Neurons are composed of a cell body (also known as the soma), dendrites, and an axon. The cell body contains the nucleus and cytoplasm. Dendrites are short, branch-like structures that receive signals from other neurons and transmit them towards the cell body. The axon is a long, thin structure that transmits signals away from the cell body to other neurons or to muscles or glands.
Function
Neurons are responsible for receiving, processing, and transmitting information through electrical and chemical signals. They communicate with each other via synapses, small gaps where the axon of one neuron can transmit signals to the dendrite of another neuron.
Types
There are three main types of neurons: sensory neurons, motor neurons, and interneurons. Sensory neurons transmit signals from sensory receptors to the central nervous system. Motor neurons transmit signals from the central nervous system to muscles or glands. Interneurons transmit signals between sensory neurons and motor neurons.
Related Terms
- Neurotransmitter: Chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.
- Neuroglia: Also known as glial cells, these cells provide support and protection for neurons.
- Action potential: The change in electrical potential that occurs when a neuron sends a signal.
- Myelin sheath: A fatty layer that covers the axon of some neurons and helps speed neural impulses.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Neurons
- Wikipedia's article - Neurons
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