Anatomy of a Neuron
The nervous system is an organ system that contains a network of
specialized cells called neurons. This is the master controlling and
communicating system of the body. It coordinates our actions and
transmits signals between the different parts of the body. Neurons
communicate with other cells via synapses, which are membrane to
membrane junctions containing receptors that allows rapid
transmission of signals, either electrical or chemical. Neurons
possess an axon, a protoplasmic protrusion that can extend to
distant parts of the body and make thousands of synaptic contacts.
Axons frequently travel through the body in bundles called nerves.
However, a structure called a dendrite is attached to the main body
of a neuron which is where electrical or chemical signals are
received and then propagated along the axon.
Fig
2.Illustrates an axons synaptic
end bulb making
a connection at a neuromuscular junction. Image Retrieved
from
http://www.gwc.maricopa.edu/class/bio201/histoprc/prac1a8.htm
Fig 1. Illustrates the anatomy of a neuron.Image retrieved
from
http://houseofmind.tumblr.com/post/701022133/anatomical-structure-of-a-neuron-i-like-this
Fig 3. Illustrates an axons
synaptic end bulb.Image retrieved from
http://tonks.disted.camosun.bc.ca/courses/psyc110/biopsyc/biopsyc.htm
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