What is the term for the neuron cell body?

The neuron cell body is referred to as the soma. The soma is a critical part of a neuron, containing the nucleus and other organelles essential for cell functioning and maintenance. It plays a vital role in integrating the information received from the dendrites—short, branching structures that receive signals from other neurons.

The soma supports the metabolic activities of the neuron, allowing it to produce neurotransmitters and maintain its cellular structure. Understanding the function of the soma is crucial for comprehending how neurons communicate and contribute to overall brain function. The terms axon, dendrite, and terminal button represent different components of a neuron, each serving specific roles in the transmission of signals between neurons but are distinct from the soma itself.