In a typical neuron, what is the primary function of dendrites?

• A. Release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft
• B. Generate myelin to electrically insulate the axon
• C. Conduct action potentials away from the soma toward axon terminals
• D. Receive synaptic input and convey graded potentials toward the cell body (soma)

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure of a typical neuron, which includes dendrites, the soma (cell body), the axon, and axon terminals.
2. Recognize that dendrites are branched extensions from the soma designed to receive signals from other neurons.
3. Know that dendrites receive synaptic input in the form of neurotransmitters released by other neurons into the synaptic cleft.
4. Learn that upon receiving these signals, dendrites convert them into graded potentials, which are changes in membrane potential that vary in magnitude.
5. These graded potentials are then conveyed toward the soma, where they can be integrated to determine if an action potential will be generated and sent down the axon.