key term - Neuron

Definition

A neuron is a nerve cell that is the basic building block of the nervous system. It transmits information to other nerve cells, muscle, or gland cells.

Related terms

Dendrite: This is like the mailbox where the postman picks up letters (or signals). Dendrites are branch-like structures that receive these signals from other neurons.

Axon:

This is like the path or route that our postman takes to deliver his letters. The axon is a long slender projection of a neuron that conducts electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body.

Synapse:

This is like the destination address on each letter. Synapses are junctions between two neurons where communication occurs through neurotransmitters.