Närvirakust

Närvirakust, often translated as nerve cell or neuron, is the fundamental unit of the nervous system. These specialized cells are responsible for transmitting information throughout the body via electrical and chemical signals. Neurons are highly diverse in structure and function, but they generally share common components.

The main body of a neuron is called the cell body or soma, which contains the nucleus and other essential organelles. Extending from the cell body are dendrites, which are branched extensions that receive signals from other neurons. A single, long projection called an axon transmits signals away from the cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands. The axon is often covered in a myelin sheath, an insulating layer that speeds up nerve impulse transmission.

Nerve impulses, or action potentials, are generated when a neuron is stimulated. This electrical signal travels down the axon. At the end of the axon, at a junction called a synapse, the electrical signal is converted into a chemical signal, typically involving neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters are released into the synaptic cleft and bind to receptors on the next cell, thus continuing the communication pathway. The nervous system relies on the intricate network and precise functioning of billions of neurons to control everything from basic reflexes to complex thought processes.