Neurons are highly specialized cells designed for rapid communication throughout the nervous system. Each component of a neuron has evolved to optimize signal reception, integration, and transmission, making them the most efficient communication cells in biology.
đŦ Key Structures
Dendrites receive signals from other neurons
Cell body integrates incoming information
Axon conducts electrical impulses away from cell body
Axon terminals release neurotransmitters
Neural Insight
A single neuron can receive input from up to 10,000 other neurons through its dendrites, yet it produces just one output signal - demonstrating incredible computational power in signal integration.
đ¯ Learning Objectives
Identify the major components of a neuron and understand how each structure contributes to the cell's ability to receive, process, and transmit electrical and chemical signals.