Parts of a Neuron

Neuron (nerve cell)

The basic functional unit of the nervous system.

Neuron

Has a specific role in generating and transmitting electrical and chemical signals.

Cell Body (Soma)

Central part of the neuron.

Cell Body (Soma)

Contains the nucleus and organelles.

Cell Body (Soma)

Typically round or pyramidal-shaped.

Cell Body (Soma)

Maintains cell metabolism.

Cell Body (Soma)

Synthesizes proteins.

Cell Body (Soma)

Contains genetic material.

Cell Body (Soma)

Processes information.

Cell Body (Soma)

Supports overall cell health.

Dendrites

Tree-like extensions.

Dendrites

Multiple branches.

Dendrites

Covered in dendritic spines.

Dendrites

Increase surface area for connections.

Dendrites

Receive signals from other neurons.

Dendrites

Collect and process information.

Dendrites

Form synaptic connections.

Dendrites

Integrate multiple inputs.

Dendrites

Conduct signals toward the cell body.

Axon

Single long projection.

Axon

Cylindrical shape.

Axon

Varies in length.

Axon

Contains axoplasm.

Axon Hillock

Initial segment, site of action potential generation.

Axon Shaft

Main conducting portion, covered by myelin in many neurons.

(Axon) Nodes of Ranvier

Gaps in the myelin sheath, enable saltatory conduction.

Axon

Conducts electrical signals.

Axon

Transports materials.

Axon

Maintains cellular communication.

Axon

Releases neurotransmitters.

Myelin Sheath

Insulating layer.

Myelin Sheath

Made of lipids and proteins.

Myelin Sheath

Formed by oligodendrocytes in the CNS.

Myelin Sheath

Formed by Schwann cells in the PNS.

Myelin Sheath

Increases conduction speed.

Myelin Sheath

Protects the axon.

Myelin Sheath

Provides metabolic support.

Myelin Sheath

Enables saltatory conduction.

Axon Terminals

Branch-like endings.

Axon Terminals

Contain synaptic vesicles.

Axon Terminals

Form synaptic boutons.

Axon Terminals

Store neurotransmitters.

Axon Terminals

Release chemical signals.

Axon Terminals

Form synapses.

Axon Terminals

Communicate with target cells.