Structure of a neuron:

Cell body – contains numerous organelles and a cell nucleus that produces RNA for protein synthesis. It also produces proteins that are consumed by other parts of the neuron in order to function properly

Processes (axon & dendrites) – finger-like projections from the cell body that is able to conduct and transmit signals. The dendrites receive electrical messages and transfer received information to the soma. The axon form branches to send messages to several neurons at once

Five types of neurons:

– Unipolar (pseudo unipolar) – single, short processes
– Multipolar – three or more processes
– Pyramidal – neurons with a pyramidal shaped cell body and two
distinct dendritic trees
– Bipolar – two processes
– Purkinje – have multiple dendrites that fan out from the cell body

Two types of neuroglia in PNS:

Satellite cells – flattened cells with prominent nuclei that surrounds nerve cells of ganglia. They insulate and support neurons of ganglia

Schwann cells – flattened cells with a flattened nucleus that form myelin sheath in the peripheral NS