Neurons are specialized cells of the nervous system that play a fundamental role in the transmission of information and communication between various parts of the body. To understand how neurons work, it is crucial to know their parts and how each one contributes to their overall function.
1. Cell body (soma)
The soma, also known as the cell body, is the main part of the neuron that contains the nucleus and most of the cellular structures necessary for the survival and function of the cell. It is in the soma where metabolic processes are carried out and the proteins necessary for the maintenance and growth of the cell are synthesized.
Functions of the cell body:
- Synthesis of proteins.
- Metabolic processes.
- Integration of the information received by the dendrites.
2. Dendrites
Dendrites are branched extensions of the cell body whose main function is to receive electrical and chemical signals from other neurons or cells. These signals are transmitted to the cell body for processing and subsequent sending through the axon.
Characteristics of the dendrites:
- Branched, to increase the surface area for receiving signals. signals.
- Receivers of neurotransmitters released by neighboring neurons.
- Transmission of signals to the cell body.
3. Axon
The axon is a long, thin extension of the cell body that is responsible for transmitting the nervous impulse from the cell body to other cells or structures, such as other neurons, organs or muscles. The axon is covered by a layer of myelin, which acts as an insulator and accelerates the transmission of the nerve impulse.
Functions of the axon:
- Transmission of the nerve impulse.
Functions of the axon:
- Transmission of the nerve impulse.
- Maintain the structural integrity of the neuron.
- Communication with other cells.
4. Synaptic button
The synaptic button, also known as the axon terminal, is the final part of the axon that establishes contact with other neurons or cells through synapses. In the synaptic button, neurotransmitters are released, chemical substances that transmit signals from one neuron to another, allowing communication between cells.
Components of the synaptic button:
- Synaptic vesicles that contain neurotransmitters.
- Active zone of neurotransmitter release.
- Receptors on the membrane of the postsynaptic cell.
In summary, neurons are composed of various parts, each one with specific functions that contribute to the processing and transmission of information in the nervous system. Understanding the structure and function of these parts is essential to understand how neurons communicate with each other and how cognitive and sensory processes are carried out in the body.