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Oct 16
Dendrites are the branch-like extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons and transmit them to the cell body. They are covered in synapses, which are the points of connection between neurons where neurotransmitters are released. Dendrites play a crucial role in the communication between neurons and are essential for the functioning of the nervous system.
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Google Gemini AI
Oct 16
Dendrites are highly branched extensions of a neuron's cell body that primarily receive signals from other neurons. They are the primary input pathway for a neuron. Here are the key features of dendrites:
- Structure: Dendrites are thin, cylindrical projections that extend from the cell body (soma) of a neuron. They can vary greatly in length and branching.
- Synapses: Dendrites are covered in small membrane-bound protrusions called dendritic spines. These spines are the sites where synapses with other neurons are formed.
- Postsynaptic Receptors: Dendrites contain postsynaptic receptors that bind to neurotransmitters released by presynaptic neurons. These receptors can be either excitatory or inhibitory, depending on the neurotransmitter.
- Integration of Input: Dendrites integrate the electrical signals received from multiple inputs. The cumulative effect of these signals determines whether the neuron will produce an action potential.
- Propagation of Signals: Unlike axons, dendrites do not generate action potentials. Instead, they propagate signals as graded potentials, which are smaller, more localized electrical signals.
- Modulation: The structure and function of dendrites can be modulated by various factors, such as neuronal activity, neurotrophic factors, and synaptic plasticity.
Functions of Dendrites:
- Receive signals from other neurons via synaptic connections
- Integrate the input signals to determine the neuron's electrical response
- Propagate graded potentials towards the cell body
- Facilitate the formation and modification of synapses
- Participate in synaptic plasticity and learning processes
- Structure: Dendrites are thin, cylindrical projections that extend from the cell body (soma) of a neuron. They can vary greatly in length and branching.
- Synapses: Dendrites are covered in small membrane-bound protrusions called dendritic spines. These spines are the sites where synapses with other neurons are formed.
- Postsynaptic Receptors: Dendrites contain postsynaptic receptors that bind to neurotransmitters released by presynaptic neurons. These receptors can be either excitatory or inhibitory, depending on the neurotransmitter.
- Integration of Input: Dendrites integrate the electrical signals received from multiple inputs. The cumulative effect of these signals determines whether the neuron will produce an action potential.
- Propagation of Signals: Unlike axons, dendrites do not generate action potentials. Instead, they propagate signals as graded potentials, which are smaller, more localized electrical signals.
- Modulation: The structure and function of dendrites can be modulated by various factors, such as neuronal activity, neurotrophic factors, and synaptic plasticity.
Functions of Dendrites:
- Receive signals from other neurons via synaptic connections
- Integrate the input signals to determine the neuron's electrical response
- Propagate graded potentials towards the cell body
- Facilitate the formation and modification of synapses
- Participate in synaptic plasticity and learning processes
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