What are nerve cells?

According to Eric H. Chudler, Ph.D., nerve cells, otherwise known as neurons, carry messages through an electrochemical process. Nerve cells range in size, some of which have cell bodies that are only 4 micorns wide and others which have 100 microns wide! They are generally located in the nerve tissue, which is located in the nervous system.

Nerve cells, according to the National Cancer Institute, consist of three basic parts: cell body, one or more dendrites, and a single axon. The cell body is similar to other cells, in which it has a nucleus with at least one nucleolus and many cytoplasmic organelles. Dendrites, sometimes referred as fibers, increase their surface area to receive signals from other neurons. Axons are surrounded by myelin, which is made of fibers that make gray matter.

visual of nerve cell
picture credits: Wikipedia

There are many different neurotransmitters, according to National Institute on Drug Abuse, each playing a precise role in the function of the brain. Generally, each neurotransmitter can only bind to a very specific matching receptor, fitting in like a key into a lock.


References
"Neuroscience For Kids." - Cells of the Nervous System. Web. 31 Aug. 2015.
"SEER Training Modules." SEER Training:Nerve Tissue. Web. 31 Aug. 2015.
"Nerve Cells and Neurotransmission." NIDA for Teens. Web. 31 Aug. 2015.