Parts of a Neuron

Dendrites

Branchlike parts of a neuron that are specialized to receive information. #1 in picture.

Cell Body

Largest part of a neuron; contains the nucleus and much of the cytoplasm. #3 in picture.

Axon Hillock

Portion of the neuron that connects the cell body (soma) to the axon. The impulses the neuron receives from all the dendrites are summed up to determine whether an action potential will be initiated. First to the left of #5 in picture.

Axon

A long nerve cell process that usually conducts impulses away from the cell body. #5 in picture.

Axon Collateral

Branches of axon that go to multiple effectors.

Schwann Cell

Part of the neuron that produces the myelin sheath; functions in repair and regeneration of damaged nerves; wrap around the axon; aid the myelin in insulation. #9 in picture.

Myelin Sheath

A layer of fatty tissue segmentally encasing the fibers of many neurons; enables vastly greater transmission speed of neural impulses as the impulse hops from one node to the next. #6/7 in picture.

Node of Ranvier

A gap between successive segments of the myelin sheath where the axon membrane is exposed. #8 in picture.

Axon Terminal

The endpoint of a neuron where neurotransmitters are stored. #2 in picture.

Synaptic End Bulb

Found at the end of axon terminal & contains synaptic vesicles that are filled with neurotransmitters. #3 in picture.