Excerpted form Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care, by Randy Kidd, D.V.M., Ph.D. Copyright (c) 2000 by Randy Kidd, D.V.M., Ph.D.. Reprinted by permission of Storey Books.
What is a Neuron. A neuron is a very specialized cell that forms the basis of the nervous system. It is also referred to as a nerve cells. Neurons are unique in that they transmit signals throughout the body. These signals are referred to as action potentials, nerve impulses or spikes.
Neurons are the fundamental cellular unit of the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS). Essential features of neurons: 1  The purpose of neurons is to receive, process, and transfer information. 2  This information is made up of chemical or electrical signals.