Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
The cell body, or soma, is the part of a neuron that contains the nucleus. It's responsible for maintaining the life of the cell and it's where most protein synthesis occurs.
Related terms
Nucleus: This is like the factory manager in our analogy. It's an organelle present in most cells, containing genetic material and controlling cellular activities such as growth and reproduction.
Cytoplasm: This is like the factory floor where work gets done. In cells, cytoplasm is where most metabolic reactions occur.
Mitochondria: These are like power generators inside each cell. They produce energy through respiration, powering various functions within a neuron.