GLOSSARY

The cell body (soma) is the central part of the neuron, containing the nucleus and most organelles, and is the metabolic and nutritional centre of the whole neuron, including axons more than a metre long.

Components

• Nucleus: large, with a prominent nucleolus, a sign of high protein synthesis.
• Nissl bodies: rough endoplasmic reticulum and abundant ribosomes, making proteins and neurotransmitters.
• Golgi apparatus, mitochondria, and the cytoskeleton (neurofilaments and microtubules).
• Axon hillock: where the axon emerges and the action potential begins.

Characteristics