The Nervous System: The Neuron (Nerve Cell)

Welcome back to our lesson on the

nervous

system

. In this video we will talk about the primary

cell

of the

nervous

system

, the

neuron

. We will talk about the structure of

neuron

s and also how they come together to form a complete network of

nerve

cell

s. Great, then let's get started. The neuron is a very fascinating and vital part of the nervous system because it allows it to communicate with the rest of the body. The structure of the neuron offers key features to help it transmit messages over relatively long distances. To begin with, the Neuron has a Cell Body, which is also known as Soma, and which houses the cell nucleus.

Next are the dendrites, which are tree-like branches that extend out of the soma. These are used by the neuron to detect both chemical and electrical stimuli. In the center of the neuron is the axon. The axon is the longest extension of the soma and can measure up to one meter in length. It serves as the main communication conduit from one end of the neuron to the other. The axon hillock is the junction that connects the axon to the cell body. Covering the axon are myelin sheaths. Myelin sheaths are sections of fatty tissue that help protect the axon and also help speed up the conduction of signals along the axon.

The spaces between the myelin sheaths are called nodes of Ranvier. These also help in conduction of signals and also allow nutrients and waste to enter and exit the axon. Finally, at the end of the axon, there are extensions that branch to form several axon terminals. Now that we've covered the structure of the neuron, let's talk about how neurons come together to form a network of

nerve

cells. Remember, neurons are supposed to send messages to each other, but how exactly does this happen? The transmission of messages occurs at the synapse, or synaptic cleft, which is the junction between the axon terminals of one neuron and the dendrites of another neuron.

This is the special area where chemical and electrical neurotransmitters are released and picked up by the dendrites of the receiving nerve cell. As neurons pass information to the central nervous system, our body interprets these messages as images, sounds, scents, and other sensations that allow us to observe the world around us. This concludes our discussion of the neuron. Thanks for watching.