Dendrites
Branch from the soma, receive messages from other cells
Dendrites are branched projections of a neuron that receive information from other neurons and transmit it towards the cell body. They are the main sites of receiving signals from other nerve cells or other inputs such as sensory stimuli.
Dendrites have a variety of shapes and sizes ranging from thin and spiky to thick and bushy. They have many spines or protrusions along their surface which allow for greater surface area to communicate with other neurons. The greater the number of dendritic connections, the stronger the signal is likely to be.
As information enters the dendrite, it is modified and integrated with other signals before being transmitted to the cell body. This information is then processed within the neuron and a decision is made regarding whether to send a signal along the axon to other neurons or not.
Dendrites play a crucial role in shaping neural circuits and plasticity, which allows the brain to adapt and learn. They are also involved in a variety of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and autism, highlighting their importance in understanding brain function and dysfunction.
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