Neuron

Definition

A neuron is a specialized cell in the nervous system that transmits information through electrical and chemical signals. Neurons are often called "the building blocks of the brain" because they form networks that allow us to process thoughts, memories, emotions, and physical sensations. Each neuron has three main parts: dendrites (which receive signals), a cell body (which processes signals), and an axon (which sends signals to other neurons or cells).

Example

Imagine you touch a hot stove by accident. The heat is detected by sensory neurons in your skin. These neurons send electrical signals through their axons to the spinal cord, where they connect with other neurons. Some of these neurons send signals back to your muscles to make you pull your hand away, while others send signals up to your brain so you can feel pain and learn not to touch the stove again.

Why it Matters

Neurons are essential for everything we do, from thinking and feeling to moving and sensing the world around us. Without neurons, we wouldn’t be able to process information or respond to changes in our environment. They also play a critical role in learning and memory, allowing us to adapt and grow throughout our lives. Understanding how neurons work helps scientists develop treatments for diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson’s, and epilepsy, which are caused by damage to the nervous system.

See Also

• Dendrites
• Axon
• Action Potential
• Glial Cells
• Synapse
• Neurotransmitter
• All-or-Nothing Response