Neuron (Nerve Cell)

Like other cells, each **neuron** has a cell body (or soma) that contains a nucleus, smooth and rough endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, mitochondria, and other cellular components. Neurons also contain unique structures for receiving and transmitting the electrical signals that enable neuronal communication. Dendrites are tree-like structures that extend away from the cell body to receive signals from other neurons at specialized junctions called synapses. Dendrites can have small protrusions called dendritic spines, which further increase surface area for additional synaptic connections. The cell body contains a specialized structure called the axon hillock, which integrates signals from multiple synapses and serves as a junction between the cell body and an axon. Axons are tube-like structures that propagate the integrated signals toward specialized endings called axon terminals. These terminals form synapses with other neurons, muscles or target organs. Chemicals released at axon terminals allow signals to be communicated to these other cells. *LICENSES AND ATTRIBUTIONS CC licensed content, Shared previously, Nervous System, Authored by: OpenStax College. License: CC BY: Attribution. License Terms: Download for free at:http://cnx.org/contents/pMqJxKsZ@2/Nervous-System* ## Keywords Neuron body dendrites neurites nerve impulses nervous tissue brain synapse