Neurons are highly specialized for processing and transmission of cellular signals..Given their diversity of functions performed in different parts of the nervous system,, there is,, as expected,, a wide variety in their shape,, size,, and electrochemical properties.. For instance,, the soma of a neuron can vary from 4 to 100 micrometers in diameter..

·         The soma is the body of the neuron.. As it contains the nucleus,, most protein synthesis occurs here.. The nucleus can range from 3 to 18 micrometers in diameter..

·         The dendrites of a neuron are cellular extensions with many branches.. This overall shape and structure is referred to metaphorically as a dendritic tree.. This is where the majority of input to the neuron occurs via the dendritic spine..

·         The axon is a finer,, cable-like projection that can extend tens,, hundreds,, or even tens of thousands of times the diameter of the soma in length.. The axon carries nerve signals away from the soma (and also carries some types of information back to it).. Many neurons have only one axon,, but this axon may—and usually will—undergo extensive branching,, enabling communication with many target cells.. The part of the axon where it emerges from the soma is called the axon hillock.. Besides being an anatomical structure,, the axon hillock is also the part of the neuron that has the greatest density of voltage dependent sodium channels.. This makes it the most easily excited part of the neuron and the spike initiation zone for the axon: in electrophysiological terms it has the most negative action potential threshold.. While the axon and axon hillock are generally involved in information outflow,, this region can also receive input from other neurons..

·         The axon terminal contains synapses,, specialized structures where neurotransmitter chemicals are released to communicate with target neurons..

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