Neuron

Neuron is the main cell of the Nervous System. It is an electrical excitable cell that is responsible for the transmision of the nerve impulse. With it, they process (in the brain, ganglia and spinal cord) and transmit information.

The other type of cell is glia, which protects the former.

There can be three main types of neurons:

• Associative (found on the brain)
• Aferent (sensitive)
• Eferent (motor)

Associative neurons are the most complex type of cells that exist. They form complex neural networks on the brain and its adjacent structures. They are responsible for conscience and voluntary movement in animals. See brain.

Neurons do not reproduce like many others type of cells. Their DNA copying is blocked. Thus, they usually don't regenerate (except for aferent and eferent neurons) and have to be protected from damage by the glial cells.

Neurons form nerves. Nerves can be up to 1 meter long (the nerves controlling the legs, for instance). They have three main parts:

• Cell body: it is the main part of the cell, the one that makes all metabolism and functions. It is very similar to other body cells, except for the difference that neurons do not replicate.
• Axon: it is the longest part of the neuron, it transmit the impulse.
• Synaptic bulbs: those are the ones which secrete neurotransmitters to initiate the impulse on the next neuron.
• Dendrites: they detect the neurotransmitter and have receptors to receive the neurotransmitter and they start the impulse if it is strong enough.

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