Definition & Meaning of "axon"

What is an "axon"?

An axon is a long, thin, and cylindrical extension of a neuron that transmits electrical signals away from the cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands. It is a crucial part of the nervous system and is fundamental to communication between neurons. The axon is covered in a protective layer of myelin, which helps to increase the speed and efficiency of signal transmission. In some cases, axons can range in length from a few millimeters to over a meter. At the end of the axon are small branches called axon terminals that form synapses with other neurons or target cells, allowing for the transmission of signals across the synapse. The complex network of axons and synapses is essential for learning, memory, perception, and other cognitive processes in the brain.