Neurons have a cell body that produces proteins and neurotransmitters, with an axon and dendrites extending from the cell body. Axons are surrounded by Schwann cells that provide insulation through myelin membranes. There are three main types of neurons - motor neurons carry signals to effectors, sensory neurons carry signals from receptors, and reflex neurons link motor and sensory neurons in the spinal cord.
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Structure of a neuron
1. The Structure of a Neuron
Neurones are adapted to carry electrochemical charges called nerve impulses. Each
neurone comprises of a cell body that contains a nucleus and large amounts of rough
endoplasmic reticulum which are used in the production of proteins and neurotransmitters.
Extending from the cell body is a long fibre called an axon and smaller branched fibres
called dendrons.
Axons are surrounded by Schwann cells which protect and provide electrical insulation as
their membranes are rich in myelin.
There are 3 main types of neuron. Those that carry nerve impulses to an effector are
called motor neurones, those that carry impulses from a receptor are called sensory
neurones and those that link the other two types in the spinal cord are called reflex
neurones.
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