neuron

(noor′on″)

To hear audio pronunciation of this topic, purchase a subscription or log in.

[Gr. neuron, nerve, sinew]
The structural and functional unit of the nervous system; a nerve cell. A neuron consists of a perikaryon (cell body) and its processes, an axon and one or more dendrites. Neurons function in the initiation and conduction of impulses. They transmit impulses to other neurons or cells by releasing neurotransmitters at synapses. In addition, a neuron may release neurohormones into the bloodstream.
SYN: SEE: nerve cell
Descriptive text is not available for this image

NEURON STRUCTURE
neuronal (noor′′ŏn-ăl)
To hear audio pronunciation of this topic, purchase a subscription or log in.
, adj.

There's more to see -- the rest of this topic is available only to subscribers.