Cell Body
Definition
The cell body, or soma, is the part of a neuron that contains the nucleus. It's responsible for maintaining the life of the cell and it's where most protein synthesis occurs.
Analogy
Think of the cell body as a factory manager’s office. Just like how all important decisions about production are made from this office, all vital functions necessary for the survival and operation of neurons happen within the cell body.
Related terms
Nucleus: This is like the factory manager in our analogy. It's an organelle present in most cells, containing genetic material and controlling cellular activities such as growth and reproduction.
Cytoplasm: This is like the factory floor where work gets done. In cells, cytoplasm is where most metabolic reactions occur.
Mitochondria: These are like power generators inside each cell. They produce energy through respiration, powering various functions within a neuron.
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