Neurons or nerve cells are part of the nervous system and transmit information between different parts of the body. The neuron has an important role in the production of neurotransmitters.

The majority of neurons are composed of several main features; a cell body, dendrites and an axon.

The cell body contains a nucleus and other structures that are commonly found in living cells. It supports the chemical processes of the neuron.

Dendrites are generally thin structures that become narrower as they branch away from the cell body. They extend from the cell body and overlap between other neurones and allow communication at the synapses. They can receive incoming information. The short outgrowths of the dendrite create a wider receptive surface area of a neuron.

The axon of a neuron is a singular fibre that carries information away. It tends to be much thicker and longer than the dendrites of a neuron.

The myelin sheath covering the neuron is composed of fat-containing cells which insulates the axon from electrical activity and speeds up the nerve impulses passing along it.

There are regular gaps along the myelin sheath called Nodes of Ranvier which actually help to boost the nerve impulses as they pass along the axon.