28th January 2017

Describe the structure and functions of neurons

(10)

Neurones are specialized cells that receive and transmit electrical

impulses. There are 3 types of neurones: Sensory, Relay and Motor
neurones. Each of these neurons have different functions but have
the same structures however with different positioning.

Sensory Neurone: it conducts nerve impulses from receptors the

CNS.
Relay Neurone: it transmits impulses within the CNS.
Motor Neurone: it conducts nerve impulses from the CNS to the
glands or muscles, i.e. effectors.

The structure of a neuron consists of 3 main parts: an axon, a cell

body and dendrites. It also has Nodes of Ranvier, Synaptic
nodes(knobs)and myelin sheaths.

The axons are nerve fibers that conduct nerve impulses away from
the cell body. They may be covered in a layer made of Schwann
cells called a Myelin Sheath. This segmented layer of lipid material
increases the speed at which nerve impulses are transmitted from
one nerve cell to the next and provides insulation.

Gaps between each section of the Myelin Sheath on the axons are
called Nodes of Ranvier, where Sodium and potassium ion pumps
are found. These pumps are responsible for transmitting action
potentials down a neuron.

The synaptic nodes(knobs) contain neurotransmitters that travel to

an adjacent neuron with a nerve impulse.

The cell body is located in the CNS and contains the nucleus. The
nucleus contains the neurons DNA and is regulates the neuron
processes.
The cell body also contains mitochondria, which are needed to
release ATP for processes such as active transport. There are Nissl's
granules which are clusters of RER and Golgi apparatus for protein
synthesis.

The Dendrites are the receptive part of the neuron as they receive
nerve impulses from the cell body and make connections with other
neurones.

Conclusion:
Neurones have different types depending on their functions.
28th January 2017

There are different types of neurones(sensory, relay and motor) and

these have different structures due to their functions.References:

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