Answer to Question #159694 in Cell Biology for Alfie Hallam

Question

Which part of the neurone detects an incoming electrical impulse?

Nucleus

Dendrites

Axon

Node of Ranvier

Answer 1

ELECTRICAL IMPULSE TRANSMISSION IN NEURONS 

Abstract:

Neurons are specialized cells that transmit chemicals and electrical signals to facilitate communication between the brain and the body. A neuron has three main parts; the cell body which directs all activities of the neuron. Dendrites which receive messages from other nerve cells .Axon convey messages from the cell body to the dendrites of other neurons. Myelin sheath insulates the axon and helps nerve signals travel faster and farther.

Messages travel along a single neuron as electrical impulses, messages between neurons travel differently. The convey of information from neuron to neuron takes place through the release of chemical substances into the expanse between the axon and the dendrites. These chemicals are called neurotransmitters.

When neurons transmit an electrical impulse it triggers the release of neurotransmitters from the axon into the synapse. The neurotransmitters cross the synapse and bind to special molecules on the other side called receptors .Receptors are located on the dendrites, receptor receive and process the image.

Dendrites are responsible for the detection of incoming electrical impulses from other cells, they have tree- like extensions at the beginning of a neuron that help increase the surface area of the cell body. These tiny lumps receive information from other neurons and transmit electrical information to the soma.

References:

NIDA Junior scientists program

Very well mind.com