Dendriten

Dendriten, the German term for dendrites, are the branched extensions of neurons that receive synaptic inputs from other cells. They form a complex dendritic arbor that, together with the soma and axon, governs how signals are integrated within a neuron. Dendrites are studded with dendritic spines, small protrusions where most excitatory synapses occur. The pattern and density of dendrites vary by neuron type, with some neurons showing long apical branches and others possessing mainly basal dendrites near the cell body.

Function: Dendrites collect and integrate incoming signals through graded potentials that travel toward the axon hillock. They contribute to computation via passive electrical properties and active mechanisms provided by ion channels and synaptic receptors. Local dendritic spikes and calcium transients in spines can influence whether a neuron fires and how synaptic strength is modified.

Plasticity and development: Dendritic trees grow during development and are sculpted by experience. Changes in dendritic length, branching, and spine density underlie learning and memory and can be altered in disease.

Clinical relevance: Abnormal dendritic architecture and spine loss have been linked to several disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, autism spectrum disorders, and schizophrenia, as well as aging-related cognitive decline.

Research methods: Dendritic properties are studied with microscopy techniques such as confocal and two-photon imaging, electrophysiology (patch-clamp), and computational modeling of compartmental dendritic structures to investigate integration and plasticity.