Structural Classification of Neurons

What is the basis of structural classification of neurons?

The number of processes (dendrites and axon) extending from the neuron cell body

Multipolar Neuron - appearance

*Has many dendrites and one axon
*Total number of dendrites as well as the degree of branching in those dendrites varies

Multipolar Neuron - location

*Most of the neurons within the CNS
*Most motor neurons

Bipolar Neuron - appearance

*Have two processes: one dendrite and one axon

Bipolar Neuron - function

*Dendrite is specialized to receive a specific stimulus
*Axon conducts action potentials to the CNS

Bipolar Neuron - location

*Retina of the eye
*Nasal cavity
*Bipolar neurons are rare

Unipolar Neuron - appearance

*Have a single process extending from the cell body
*This process divides into two branches a short way from the cell body
*One branch extends to the CNS
*One branch extends to the periphery and has dendrite-like sensory receptors
-This branch could be co

Unipolar Neuron - location

*Sensory neurons in the PNS