Anatomy:

• Soma (cell body): Contains the nucleus; integrates incoming signals.

• Dendrites: Tree-like extensions that receive synaptic input.

• Axon hillock: Decision point for action potential initiation.

• Axon: Long projection that transmits electrical impulses.

• Myelin sheath: Insulates axon, speeds up signal transmission (formed by oligodendrocytes in CNS).

• Nodes of Ranvier: Gaps in myelin where action potentials are regenerated.

• Axon terminals: Release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft.

Function:

• Process and transmit electrical signals via action potentials.

• Communicate chemically through synapses using neurotransmitters.

• Specialized into types (sensory, motor, interneurons) with distinct roles.

• Involved in all cognitive and motor processes.