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Nerve cells, or neurons, are essential units of the nervous system responsible for transmitting information through electrical and chemical signals. They consist of a cell body, dendrites, and an axon, with three main types: sensory, motor, and interneurons, each playing a vital role in communication and reflexes. Understanding neurons is crucial for cognitive function, movement, and medical advancements in treating neurological disorders.

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4 views

slidesgo-exploring-the-nerve-cell-structure-function-and-significance-20250114161423s01w

Nerve cells, or neurons, are essential units of the nervous system responsible for transmitting information through electrical and chemical signals. They consist of a cell body, dendrites, and an axon, with three main types: sensory, motor, and interneurons, each playing a vital role in communication and reflexes. Understanding neurons is crucial for cognitive function, movement, and medical advancements in treating neurological disorders.

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whatevercallme2
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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The Nerve Cell

Presented by :
Nizzah Gulisao
Introduction to Nerve Cells

Nerve cells, or neurons, are the


fundamental units of the nervous
system. They are responsible for
transmitting information throughout the
body via electrical and chemical signals.
Understanding their structure and
function is crucial for grasping how the
brain and body communicate.
Basic Structure of Neurons

Neurons consist of three main parts:


the cell body (soma), dendrites, and
axon. The cell body contains the
nucleus, while dendrites receive
signals from other cells. The axon
transmits impulses away from the
cell body, facilitating communication
in the nervous system.
Cell Body (Soma)

The central part of the


neuron that contains the
nucleus and organelles. It is
responsible for maintaining
the cell's health and
functionality.
Dendrite

Branch-like structures that


extend from the cell body.
They receive signals from
other neurons and convey
this information to the cell
body.
Axon

A long, thin projection that


transmits electrical impulses
away from the cell body to
other neurons, muscles, or
glands. The axon can be
covered by a myelin sheath,
which speeds up signal
transmission.
Types of Neurons

There are three primary types


of neurons: sensory neurons,
which carry signals from
sensory receptors; motor
neurons, which transmit
signals to muscles; and
interneurons, which connect
neurons within the brain and
spinal cord. Each type plays a
vital role in the nervous
system.
Sensory Neurons
These neurons carry signals from
sensory receptors (like the skin,
eyes, and ears) to the central
Interneurons
nervous system (CNS). Located within the CNS,
these neurons connect
sensory and motor
neurons and play a critical
Motor Neurons role in reflexes and
They transmit signals from the CNS complex processing.
to muscles and glands, facilitating
movement and responses.
Neuron Functionality

Neurons communicate through action


potentials and neurotransmitters. An
action potential is an electrical impulse that
travels along the axon, while
neurotransmitters are chemicals released at
synapses to transmit signals to other
neurons, enabling complex communication.
Nerve Cells in
Health

Healthy nerve cells are essential


for proper cognitive function,
movement, and overall well-
being. They play a key role in
processing sensory information,
controlling muscle activity, and
facilitating communication
between different parts of the
body.
Neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's


ability to reorganize itself by forming
new neural connections. This
adaptability is crucial for learning,
memory, and recovery from injury,
highlighting the dynamic nature of
nerve cells in response to experiences.
Myelination and Signal Speed

The presence of myelin sheaths around


axons significantly increases the speed
of signal transmission. Myelination
allows for saltatory conduction, where
impulses jump between nodes of
Ranvier, enhancing the efficiency of
neural communication.
Conclusion: The
Significance of Neurons

Nerve cells are integral to the nervous system, influencing


everything from reflexes to complex thoughts.
Understanding their structure and function not only
enhances our knowledge of biology but also informs medical
advancements in treating neurological disorders.
Thank you for listening.

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