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A multipolar neuronA neuron with one axon and multiple dendrites; the most common type in the CNS. is a type of neuron characterized by its shape. Most multipolar neuronsThe functional cells of the nervous system that transmit signals. considered in an introductory A&P class are interneuronsNeurons that process information and connect sensory and motor neurons, found only in the CNS. or motor neuronsNeurons that carry outgoing information from the CNS to effector organs.. These neurons are the most common shape found in the central nervous systemComposed of the brain and spinal cord; integrates and processes information. (CNS).
The term “multipolar” refers to the multiple dendritesBranch-like extensions from a neuron that receive signals from other neurons. extending from the cell bodyThe central part of a neuron containing the nucleus and organelles.. In a multipolar neuron, the cell body is opposite of the axon terminals. This differs from a unipolar neuronA neuron with one process that splits into peripheral and central branches, common in sensory neuron. In a unipolar neuron, the cell body comes off the axon. It is separate from the dendrites. The cell body terminates at the axon hillockCone-shaped region of the neuron where the axon originates and where action potentials begin., an area of resistanceThe opposition to airflow in the respiratory tract, influenced by airway diameter. for action potentials. If an action potentialA rapid, temporary electrical charge that travels along neurons, allowing signal transmission. generates enough currentThe flow of electrical charge, as in ions moving across a neuron’s membrane. to crest the axon hillock, it will be propagated down the axon. Then, it will reach the axon terminals.
It is quite rare to find any good picture of a multipolar neuron fully stretched out. We would see these as we do in diagrams. In this picture here, the unmyelinated neuron cell bodies and axons are stained a dark purple. There are representations of transversely cut axons and the tear-drop shaped cell bodies with the point at the axon hillock.
Figure 1: Cerebrum, axons and neuron cell bodies 40X Slide 076b
Figure 2:Cerebellum, H&E, 20X Slide 077
All by University of Michigan Histology, licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 3.0.
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List of terms
- multipolar neuron
- neurons
- interneurons
- motor neurons
- central nervous system
- dendrites
- cell body
- unipolar neuron
- axon hillock
- resistance
- action potential
- current