Neurons are information messengers. They use electrical impulses and chemical signals to transmit information between different areas of the brain, and between the brain and the rest of the nervous system. ... Neurons have three basic parts: a cell body and two extensions called an axon (5) and a dendrite (3).

What is the function of a neuron and how do they work?

The neuron is the basic working unit of the brain, a specialized cell designed to transmit information to other nerve cells, muscle, or gland cells. Neurons are cells within the nervous system that transmit information to other nerve cells, muscle, or gland cells. Most neurons have a cell body, an axon, and dendrites.

How do neurons work?

When a neuron spikes it releases a neurotransmitter, a chemical that travels a tiny distance across a synapse before reaching other neurons (Fig 1). Any time a neuron spikes, neurotransmitters are released from hundreds of its synapses, resulting in communication with hundreds of other neurons.