Sensory neurons
Sensory Neurons
Sensory neurons (pronunciation: /ˈsɛnsəri ˈnjʊərɒnz/), also known as afferent neurons, are specialized types of neurons that are responsible for converting external stimuli from the organism's environment into internal electrical impulses. They are part of the nervous system and play a crucial role in the body's ability to perceive and respond to the world around it.
Etymology
The term "sensory neuron" is derived from the Latin word "sensus", meaning "feeling", and the Greek word "neuron", meaning "nerve". The term "afferent neuron" comes from the Latin word "afferens", which means "carrying towards". This refers to the function of these neurons, which carry information from the sensory organs towards the central nervous system.
Function
Sensory neurons are responsible for transmitting sensory information to the brain and spinal cord. They do this by converting physical stimuli, such as touch, sound, light, or temperature, into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. This process is known as transduction.
There are different types of sensory neurons, each specialized for detecting specific types of stimuli. For example, photoreceptor cells in the eyes are sensory neurons that respond to light, while nociceptors are sensory neurons that respond to pain.
Related Terms
- Neurons: The basic working unit of the brain, a specialized cell designed to transmit information to other nerve cells, muscle, or gland cells.
- Nervous System: The complex network of nerves and cells that transmit signals between different parts of the body.
- Brain: The organ of the body in the head that controls functions, movements, sensations, and thoughts.
- Spinal Cord: The major column of nerve tissue that is connected to the brain and lies within the vertebral canal and from which the spinal nerves emerge.
- Transduction: The process by which foreign DNA is introduced into a cell by a virus or viral vector.
- Photoreceptor Cells: Specialized type of neuron found in the retina that is capable of phototransduction.
- Nociceptors: A sensory receptor for painful stimuli.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sensory neurons
- Wikipedia's article - Sensory neurons
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