The long “trunk” of the neuron is called the axon, down which the long-distance electrical signal travels. On neuron sends the signal (the sender neuron) and the other receives it (the receiver neuron). At one end, neurons have branch-like projections called dendrites that allow them to receive signals. Neurons send and receive electrical signals to communicate with each other in the nervous system and with other types of cells in the body, particularly muscles.Figure 1 - The structure and function of a nerve cell (a “neuron”).How does the electrical signal jump from one neuron to another? The nerve cell releases chemical signals, called neurotransmitters, which travel across the synapse to another neuron to create a new electrical wave in that cell. The neuron has branches (like a tree) called dendrites, which receive signals, and a longer, simpler projection (like a tree trunk), called an axon, which sends signals. The movement of ions carries an electrical wave along the length of the neuron ( Figure 1). In neurons, this electricity is created by the flow of charged particles called ions that move across the outer membrane of the cell. In our brain and bodies, neurons communicate with each other by sending messages using a form of electricity.

That is how we are able to do so many things in our daily lives, like eating breakfast and studying for school. How Do Neurons Send and Receive Messages?Īll of the cells in our body communicate with each other. Neurons communicate with each other and the rest of your body at special meeting points called synapses. Your neurons carry information in the form of electrical pulses.

How does all this happen? Of course, you know your brain controls your body, but how does it know what your eyes see, or make your legs run? Your brain is made up of billions of cells called neurons. You realize it is time for dinner, so you rush back home.

Then suddenly, you hear your mother’s voice calling your name. You catch the ball, gripping it with your fingers. You sprint to catch it, pumping your legs as hard you can. You see the ball flying toward you, just five feet away.

Neurons in brain