Pseudounipolar cells

Pseudounipolar cells are a type of neuron that have two axons instead of an axon and a dendrite. One axon extends centrally toward the spinal cord, the other axon extends toward the skin or muscle. These cells are found in the sensory ganglia of the peripheral nervous system. They are unique as they have a single process that extends from the cell body, which later branches into two distinct structures.

Structure

Pseudounipolar cells have a single process that extends from the cell body and later branches into two distinct structures. One branch, known as the peripheral process, extends peripherally to the skin, joints, and muscles. The other branch, known as the central process, extends centrally into the spinal cord.

Function

The primary function of pseudounipolar cells is to transmit sensory information from the periphery to the central nervous system. They are responsible for the transmission of information related to touch, temperature, pain, and proprioception.

Clinical significance

Damage to pseudounipolar cells can result in a loss of these sensory modalities. This can occur in conditions such as neuropathy, diabetes, and leprosy.

See also

• Neuron
• Sensory ganglia
• Peripheral nervous system

References

Pseudounipolar cells Resources
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