Which part of the neuron receives signals from other neurons?

Dendrites are highly branched structures that extend from the neuron’s cell body and are specifically designed to receive signals from other neurons. They play a crucial role in gathering information by having receptors that bind to neurotransmitters released from neighboring neurons at synapses. These signals can lead to changes in the electric potential of the neuron, ultimately influencing whether the neuron will fire an action potential.

The axon is responsible for transmitting signals away from the cell body to other neurons or target tissues, rather than receiving them. The cell body contains the nucleus and is crucial for maintaining the overall health and metabolic functions of the neuron but does not directly receive synaptic inputs. The synapse is the junction between two neurons where communication occurs, but it does not itself receive signals; instead, it is the site where neurotransmitters are released and bind to dendrites of the receiving neuron.

Therefore, dendrites are specifically adapted to receive incoming signals and are essential for the neuron's ability to process and respond to information.