A typical neuron consists of several key parts, each with a specific function. Here are the labeled parts of a neuron:
- Dendrites: These are the branched extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons. They act like antennas, picking up messages and transmitting them to the cell body.
- Cell Body (Soma): The cell body contains the nucleus and other organelles necessary for the neuron’s survival and function. It integrates the incoming signals from the dendrites and decides whether to pass the signal along.
- Axon Hillock: This is the region where the cell body meets the axon. It plays a crucial role in generating action potentials, which are electrical signals that travel down the axon.
- Axon: The axon is a long, slender projection that carries electrical impulses away from the cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands. It is often covered by a myelin sheath, which speeds up the transmission of signals.
- Myelin Sheath: This is a fatty layer that surrounds the axon, providing insulation and increasing the speed at which electrical impulses travel. It is formed by specialized cells called Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system and oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system.
- Axon Terminals: These are the ends of the axon that form synapses with other neurons or target cells. They release neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers that transmit signals across the synapse to the next cell.
Understanding these parts helps in comprehending how neurons communicate and function within the nervous system.