Perikaryon

Perikaryon
Diagram of a neuron, with the perikaryon labeled as the cell body
Details
System	Nervous system
Function	Contains the nucleus and organelles of the neuron
Identifiers
Latin	perikaryon
TA98
TH	{{#property:P1694}}
TE	{{#property:P1693}}
FMA	{{#property:P1402}}
Anatomical terminology

The perikaryon, also known as the soma, is the cell body of a neuron. It is a crucial component of the nervous system, responsible for maintaining the cell's health and functionality. The perikaryon contains the nucleus and various organelles that are essential for the neuron's metabolic activities.

Structure

The perikaryon is typically spherical or ovoid in shape and is the central part of the neuron. It houses the nucleus, which contains the cell's genetic material, and is surrounded by cytoplasm. Within the cytoplasm, several organelles are present, including:

• Mitochondria: These organelles are responsible for producing energy in the form of ATP, which is vital for the neuron's activities.
• Endoplasmic reticulum: Both rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum are present, involved in protein synthesis and lipid metabolism, respectively.
• Golgi apparatus: This organelle modifies, sorts, and packages proteins for secretion or use within the cell.
• Ribosomes: These are the sites of protein synthesis.
• Lysosomes: These contain enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris.

Function

The primary function of the perikaryon is to maintain the neuron's health and support its functions. It synthesizes proteins and other molecules necessary for the neuron's operation and repair. The perikaryon also integrates signals received from the dendrites and generates outgoing signals that travel down the axon.

Role in Neural Communication

The perikaryon plays a critical role in neural communication. It processes incoming signals from the dendrites and, if the signals are strong enough, generates an action potential that travels along the axon to communicate with other neurons, muscles, or glands.

Pathology

Damage to the perikaryon can lead to neuronal dysfunction and is associated with various neurological disorders. Conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) involve degeneration of neurons, including damage to the perikaryon.

Also see

• Neuron
• Dendrite
• Axon
• Synapse
• Nervous system