What part of the neuron receives signals from other neurons?

Study for the Anatomy and Physiology (ANAPHY) Battery Exam. Review key concepts with flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Ace your test!

The correct choice is the dendrites. Dendrites are specialized extensions of the neuron that are primarily responsible for receiving incoming signals from other neurons. They have numerous branch-like structures covered with tiny receptors that interact with neurotransmitters released from adjacent neurons. This allows dendrites to convert chemical signals into electrical signals, which then travel through the neuron.

In contrast, the axon is responsible for transmitting electrical impulses away from the cell body to other neurons or muscles, making it part of the signaling process, but not involved in reception. The cell body contains the nucleus and cellular machinery but does not receive signals directly. The synapse is the junction between two neurons where neurotransmitter release occurs, facilitating communication, but it is not a structure that receives signals; rather, it is the site where the signals are transferred from one neuron to another. Thus, dendrites are crucial for the initial reception of signals in the neural communication process.

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