What is the structure and properties of neurons?

Neurons are specialized cells in the nervous system that transmit signals throughout the body. Neurons can do many different things, from perceiving external and internal stimuli, processing information, to directing muscle actions.
The most unique and important structures of the neuron are the long extensions that extend from the cell body. There are two types of extensions: dendrites and axons. Dendrites are extensions of neurons that receive signals and lead them to the cell body. Axons are extensions of neurons that carry signals from the cell body to other cells.