A neuron looks somewhat like a tree with three main parts: dendrites, a cell body (soma), and an axon.
- The dendrites resemble tree branches; they are numerous, short, and highly branched extensions that receive signals from other neurons. They often have small protrusions called spines where synapses form.
- The cell body (soma) is like the tree trunk; it contains the nucleus and is responsible for maintaining the cell and producing proteins.
- The axon is like the tree roots; it is a long, thin projection that transmits electrical signals (action potentials) away from the soma to other neurons or muscles. The axon can be very long and may branch extensively at its end to communicate with many target cells.
This structure allows neurons to receive, process, and send information efficiently. The dendrites receive input, the soma integrates it, and the axon sends output. The overall shape can vary widely depending on the neuron's function and location, but this general tree-like form is typical
. In summary, a neuron looks like a cell body with many branching dendrites on one side and a long axon projecting from the other, resembling a tree with branches and roots.
