Axon: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ง
axon
[ หakหsรคn ]
neuroscience
An axon is a long, slender projection of a nerve cell, or neuron, that conducts electrical impulses away from the neuron's cell body. Axons are essential for transmitting information to different areas of the body, connecting with other neurons, muscles, or glands. They may be myelinated or unmyelinated, impacting the speed of signal transmission. The branching ends of axons form synapses with targeted cells, playing a crucial role in communication within the nervous system.
Synonyms
nerve fiber, neurite.
Examples of usage
- The axon transmits signals between neurons.
- Myelinated axons conduct impulses faster.
- Damage to the axon can impede nerve function.
Translations
Translations of the word "axon" in other languages:
๐ต๐น axรดnio
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคเฅเคธเคจ
๐ฉ๐ช Axon
๐ฎ๐ฉ akson
๐บ๐ฆ ะฐะบัะพะฝ
๐ต๐ฑ akson
๐ฏ๐ต ่ปธ็ดข
๐ซ๐ท axon
๐ช๐ธ axรณn
๐น๐ท akson
๐ฐ๐ท ์ถ์ญ
๐ธ๐ฆ ู ุญูุฑ
๐จ๐ฟ axon
๐ธ๐ฐ axon
๐จ๐ณ ่ฝด็ช
๐ธ๐ฎ akson
๐ฎ๐ธ axรณn
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฐะบัะพะฝ
๐ฌ๐ช แแฅแกแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ akson
๐ฒ๐ฝ axรณn
Etymology
The term 'axon' comes from the Greek word 'axลn', meaning 'axis' or 'spoke of a wheel'. The word was first used in the mid-19th century as scientists began to describe the structure and function of nerve cells more accurately. In neuroscience, the axon was identified as a crucial component for understanding how neurons communicate, leading to significant advances in the field. The study of axons and their functions has also opened up discussions regarding neurodegenerative diseases and potential therapies. Over time, the understanding of the axon's role in both healthy and diseased states has evolved, revealing its importance in both basic and applied sciences.