Efferent neurons

Efferent neurons, also known as motor neurons, are a type of neuron that conduct signals away from the central nervous system (CNS) towards the peripheral effector organs such as muscles and glands. This is in contrast to afferent neurons, which transmit signals from peripheral sensory organs to the CNS.

Structure

Like all neurons, efferent neurons are composed of a cell body, dendrites, and an axon. The cell body contains the nucleus and other organelles necessary for the neuron's metabolic functions. Dendrites are short, branched extensions of the cell body that receive signals from other neurons. The axon is a long, slender projection that transmits signals away from the cell body towards other neurons or effector organs.

Function

Efferent neurons play a crucial role in the nervous system by transmitting signals from the CNS to the peripheral effector organs. This allows the CNS to control the activity of these organs, enabling a wide range of functions such as movement, secretion of hormones, and regulation of heart rate.

Classification

Efferent neurons can be classified based on their target effector organs. Somatic motor neurons innervate skeletal muscles and are responsible for voluntary movements. Autonomic motor neurons, on the other hand, innervate smooth muscles, cardiac muscles, and glands, and are responsible for involuntary functions such as digestion and heart rate regulation.

Clinical significance

Damage to efferent neurons can result in a variety of neurological disorders. For example, motor neuron diseases such as Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) involve the degeneration of efferent neurons, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis.

See also

• Neuron
• Afferent neurons
• Nervous system
• Motor neuron diseases