What makes the soma so important?

Question

a. It speeds up the neural process

b. It reverses the electrical charge within the axon

c. It is a branchlike structure

d. It is responsible for maintaining the life of a neuron

Answer 1

Hi Juliana,

The soma, aka the cell body, is what is going to house the nucleus as well as many of the organelles that are responsible for protein folding and metabolism. That being said, its regulation of genes to produce proteins that respond to the intercellular environment and the utilization of macromolecules to produce ATP as energy are what is going to maintain the neuron's life.

d. It is responsible for maintaining the life of a neuron