The human body contains approximately 86 billion neurons. These specialized cells are essential for transmitting information throughout the nervous system, allowing us to perform functions from basic reflexes to complex cognitive processes.
Neurons are divided into different types, including sensory neurons, motor neurons, and interneurons, each playing a critical role in how we interact with our environment. The greatest concentration of neurons is found in the brain, where they form intricate networks that facilitate communication and processing.
Interestingly, while 86 billion is the widely accepted estimate, the number can vary from person to person based on certain genetic and environmental factors. Understanding the exact number of neurons is still a subject of ongoing research, reflecting our evolving knowledge of the brain and its capabilities.