Which cells are responsible for transmitting signals in the nervous system?

Neurons are the specialized cells responsible for transmitting signals in the nervous system. These cells have a unique structure that allows them to carry electrical impulses over long distances, facilitating communication between different parts of the body. Neurons consist of a cell body, dendrites, and an axon. Dendrites receive signals from other neurons or sensory receptors, while the axon transmits these signals away from the cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands.

This transmission of signals occurs through a process called synaptic transmission, where the axon terminals release neurotransmitters that cross synapses to communicate with adjacent cells. This mechanism allows for rapid and efficient signaling, which is essential for coordinating bodily functions and responses to stimuli.

In contrast, the other types of cells mentioned play different roles. Muscle cells are involved in movement rather than signal transmission, stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can develop into various types of cells but do not transmit signals directly, and glial cells support and protect neurons, but they do not carry signals themselves.