Cell Body

The cell body (perikaryon) of a neuron as shown in figure contains the nucleus, ribosomes, Golgi apparatus, and mitochondria, and maintains high levels of biosynthetic activity. The rough endoplasmic reticulum is compactly packed with ribosomes, forming neuron-particular structures known as Nissl bodies which allow very high rates of protein synthesis. The Neurons come in a vast variety of shapes and sizes; and cell bodies range from 5 to 120 µm across.

   Figure: Key features of a neuron. The figure of pyramidal cells displays the distribution of neurites (dendrites and axon).