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Glossary

Neuron - Glossary Entry

Synonym(s)

  • nerve cell
  • neurocyte

Definition(s)

The basic cellular units of nervous tissue. Each neuron consists of a body, an axon, and dendrites. Their purpose is to receive, conduct, and transmit impulses in the nervous system.

Definition from: Unified Medical Language SystemThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. (MeSH)   at the National Library of Medicine

A type of cell that receives and sends messages from the body to the brain and back to the body. The messages are sent by a weak electrical current. Also called a nerve cell.

Definition from:  National Cancer Institute dictionaryThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference.
 
Published: October 22, 2004
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