These specialized cells are the information-processing units of the brain responsible for receiving and transmitting information.
These tiny protrusions receive information from other neurons and transmit electrical stimulation to the soma.
Dendrites are also covered with synapses.
BSIP/UIG / Universal Images Group / Getty Images
Characteristics
Most neurons possess these branch-like extensions that extend outward away from the cell body.
Some neurons have very small, short dendrites, while other cells possess very long ones.
This results in the signal being transmitted down the axon.
The soma and the nucleus do not play an active role in the transmission of the neural signal.
Instead, these two structures serve to maintain the cell and keep the neuron functional.
Think of the cell body as a small factory that fuels the neuron.
The axon hillock acts as something of a manager, summing the total inhibitory and excitatory signals.
This action potential is triggered by changes in ion channels which are affected by changes in polarization.
It is important to note that the action potential is anall-or-nothing processand that signals are not partially transmitted.
The neurons either fire or they do not.
The larger the diameter of the axon, the faster it transmits information.
Some axons are covered with a fatty substance called myelin that acts as an insulator.
These myelinated axons transmit information much faster than other neurons.
The myelin surrounding the neurons protects the axon and aids in the speed of transmission.
The myelin sheath is broken up by points known as the nodes of Ranvier or myelin sheath gaps.
Axons connect with other cells in the body including other neurons, muscle cells, and organs.
These connections occur at junctions known as synapses.
At the end of the terminal button is a gap known as a synapse.
Neurotransmitterscarry signals across the synapse to other neurons.
When an electrical signal reaches the terminal buttons, neurotransmitters are then released into the synaptic gap.
2015;9:137. doi:10.3389/fnana.2015.00137
Miller AD, Zachary JF.Nervous System.
In: Zachary JF, ed.Pathologic Basis of Veterinary Disease.
