Neuron

PD Image
Labeled diagram of a neuron.

In biology, a neuron is a specialized type of cell, and the fundamental unit of the nervous system. Neurons can initiate and transmit the electrical signals necessary for the proper function of most biological organisms. Typically, neurons can be divided into three regions which allow them to receive and transmit signals. Neurons have a body or soma which contain the cell nucleus and other organelles which are required for normal cell functioning. Neurons also have dendrites which allow them to receive information, and axons which allow them to transmit signals to other neurons in the organism.