Glossary Term
Nerve Cell
Nerve cells, also known as neurons, are specialized cells in the nerve tissue that can detect stimuli, respond quickly, and transmit coded information to other cells. They form the basic unit of the nervous system and work together to carry out complex functions such as movement, sensation, and cognition. Glial cells provide support and protection to neurons. The sciatic nerve, for example, is a bundle of axons from neurons whose bodies are close to the spinal cord. Synonyms include neuron, afferent neuron, sensory cells, and sensory neuron.
Nerve cell: Nerve cells consist of neurons and a much greater number of glial cells (supporting cells). One of the four basic types of animal tissue, these cells are specialized to detect stimuli, respond quickly and transmit coded information to other cells.
- Example, the sciatic nerve is actually a bundle of axons from neurons (nerve cells) whose bodies are close to the spinal cord.
- Saladin, K. (2014). Anatomy & physiology: The unity of form and function. McGraw-Hill Higher Education, New York. ISBN: 9780073403717
Image: By BruceBlaus - Own work, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=28761830
Comments
Synonyms
- Neuron
- Afferent neuron
- Sensory cells
- Sensory neuron