Neuron Structure and Function

• Neurons are specialized cells that transmit information throughout the body. They communicate using electrical impulses and chemical signals.
• Structure of a Neuron:


  Dendrites

  Cell Body (Soma)

  Axon

  Myelin Sheath

  Nodes of Ranvier

  Axon Terminals
• • Dendrites:
  • Receive signals from other neurons or sensory receptors.
  • Pass these signals to the soma.
• • Cell Body (Soma):
  • Contains the nucleus, which holds genetic material.
  • Processes incoming signals and determines whether to transmit them.
• • Axon:
  • A long fiber that carries electrical signals (action potentials) away from the soma.
• • Myelin Sheath:
  • A fatty insulating layer around the axon.
  • Speeds up the transmission of electrical signals.
• • Nodes of Ranvier:
  • Gaps in the myelin sheath where the signal is boosted.
• • Axon Terminals:
  • Release neurotransmitters into the synapse (the gap between neurons) to communicate with the next neuron.
• How Neurons Communicate:

  Electrical Signals and Chemical Signals
• Types of Neurons:


  Sensory Neurons

  • Motor Neurons
  • Relay Neurons (Interneurons)