Neurons Communications

Neurons come in different shapes and sizes, depending upon their function and structures. However, in general, all neurons work the same way and resemble each other. A neuron is a nerve cell that makes up the primary fundamental particles of the nervous system. Neurons are similar to other cells in the human body in many ways, but there is one key difference between neurons and other cells. Neurons are specialized to carry information throughout the body.

There are three types of neurons, sensory neurons – these run from various types of stimulus receptors, e.g. touch, odour, taste, sound and vision to the central nervous system, the brain and the spinal cord. The Interneurons – are found exclusively within the spinal cord and brain. They can be stimulated by signals that are reaching them from the sensory neurons, other interneurons or both. Interneurons are also called association neurons. Motor neurons – transmit impulses from the central nervous system to the muscles and the glands that carry out the responses.

Generally motor neurons are stimulated by interneurons even though some are stimulated directly by the sensory neurons.

To communicate with other neurons or muscles, neurons produce chemicals called neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters influence receptors on other neurons. In a few specialized cases, neurons communicate directly with other neurons via pores called "gap junctions."

Though neurons always send the same type of signal, the number of signals a neuron may send in at a time varies. A paper cut may cause a neuron to send over 500 signals to the brain every second. A tickling sensation will send between 100 and 200 signals per second. So, while neurons always send the same signal, the frequency will vary.

Neurons communicate with other neurons using branch like clusters of fibres that extend from on end of their cell bodies called