A multipolar neuron is a type of neuron that has multiple dendrites and a single axon originating from the cell body.

It is the most common type of neuron found in the central nervous system (CNS) and is responsible for transmitting electrical signals and facilitating communication between various parts of the body.

The multipolar neuron consists of:

• Cell Body: Also known as the soma, it contains the nucleus and most of the organelles.
• Dendrites: Branched extensions that receive incoming signals from other neurons or sensory receptors.
• Axon: A single long fiber that carries the electrical signals away from the cell body.
• Axon Terminals: Small branches at the end of the axon that transmit signals to other neurons or target organs.

The multipolar neuron functions as follows:

• Input Reception: Dendrites receive signals from other neurons or sensory receptors and convert them into electrical impulses.
• Integration: The cell body processes and integrates incoming signals, determining whether an action potential will be generated.
• Signal Transmission: If the integrated signal is strong enough, an action potential is initiated at the axon hillock and propagated along the axon.
• Output Delivery: Axon terminals release neurotransmitters into synapses, which transmit signals to other neurons or target cells, such as muscles or glands.

Examples of multipolar neurons include:

• Motor neurons that control muscle movement.
• Pyramidal neurons found in the cerebral cortex involved in information processing and cognitive functions.
• Interneurons that facilitate communication between other neurons in the CNS.