Neuron edublog post-                                                                                                                                     Danika L

Neurons. We all have them, but what are they?

A neuron is a structure within a nervous system that electrically sends signals called action potential across its entire network. An action potential is created by the movement of electrically charged atoms/ions across the axon’s membrane. It also can send signals (neurotransmitters) that carry messages and communicate with each other. Neurons themselves are basic building blocks of nervous systems and are essential for every action that our body and brain can execute.

A complex and curious structure of a neuron demonstrates various different levels of complexity and layers; some of which include:

• Cell membrane: where most processes involved in neuronal preservation and functioning are triggered.
• Cell body: contains genetic information, maintains the neurons’ structure, and provides energy.
• Myelin: allows electrical impulses to transmit quickly and efficiently along the nerve cells.
• Scwann cell: it helps to separate and insulate nerve cells.
• Axon terminal: to release neurotransmitter when stimulated by an electrical signal carried by the axon.
• Synaptic end bulbs: where neurotransmitter molecules are stored and released.
• Node of Ranvier: the gaps formed between the myelin sheath where the axons are left uncovered.
• Dendrite: membranous tree-like projections arising from the body of the neuron.

Along with the idea of neurons transmitting messages and information between each other, there is a structure called the synapse, it permits/allows these neurons to pass an electrical or chemical signal to another neuron. It also transmits nerve impulses between two neurons or a neuron and another cell which is the reason our brain can control our bodies and move different parts in different ways.

The structure of a synapse is very different compared to a motor neuron:

Each structure has different ways of allowing neurons to transmit these signals to one another, whether it be through the production of neurotransmitters which carry viable information from one neuron to another through the synaptic gap, or the neurotransmitter receptors which carry that information into the neuron. Or the dendrite, that receives synaptic inputs from axons, which can determine whether or not a neuron will fire action potential. Each function has a very important task in the ability for us to move, and in doing so, we can continue to do unimaginable things.