The smallest structural and physiological unit of the nervous system is
The smallest structural and physiological unit of the nervous system is the neuron. Neurons are specialized cells responsible for transmitting information throughout the body via electrochemical signals, enabling various functions such as perception, cognition, and motor control.
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The smallest structural and physiological unit of the nervous system is the neuron. Neurons are specialized cells that transmit electrical and chemical signals throughout the body. They consist of various components, including dendrites that receive signals, a cell body (soma) containing the nucleus and organelles, and an axon that conducts signals away from the cell body.
While centrons and dendrons are not recognized components of neurons, the axon is a crucial part responsible for transmitting signals to other neurons, muscles, or glands. Neurons communicate with each other at junctions called synapses, where neurotransmitters relay signals from one neuron to the next. Through this intricate network of communication, neurons facilitate sensory perception, motor control, memory formation, and other cognitive functions. The neuron’s ability to transmit signals rapidly and efficiently enables the nervous system to coordinate complex behaviors and responses, making it the fundamental building block of neural function.