Which part of a neuron is responsible for receiving signals from other nerve cells?

Dendrites are specialized structures of a neuron that play a crucial role in receiving signals from other nerve cells. They are tree-like extensions that branch out from the soma (cell body) of the neuron. Dendrites increase the surface area available for making synaptic connections with other neurons, allowing them to gather information in the form of chemical signals.

When neurotransmitters are released by other neurons, they bind to receptors on the dendrites, causing changes in the postsynaptic neuron's membrane potential. This process is essential for transmitting information throughout the nervous system and is foundational to how neurons communicate with one another.

The soma, while important for processing signals and maintaining the health of the neuron, primarily serves as the cell body where initial processing occurs, rather than receiving signals directly. The axon is responsible for transmitting electrical impulses away from the neuron, while the axon terminal is where these impulses reach other neurons or muscle cells to convey messages.