axon

Full Definition

An axon is the elongated projection of a neuron that conducts electrical impulses away from the cell body toward other neurons, muscles, or glands. Axons can vary greatly in length, from less than a millimeter to over a meter in humans. They are often surrounded by a myelin sheath that increases the speed of signal transmission. Axonal damage or dysfunction is implicated in many neurological conditions, making this term essential in neuroscience literature and clinical documentation.

Usage

Usage note: Distinguish from dendrites, which carry signals toward the cell body.

In Context

• "Traumatic brain injury resulted in widespread axon damage throughout the white matter tracts." — Pathology report
• "The study examined axon regeneration potential in peripheral nerve grafts." — Research publication