What function do dendrites serve in a neuron?

Dendrites are specialized structures of a neuron that primarily function to receive information from other neurons and sensory receptors. They are the branches that extend from the neuron's cell body, providing a large surface area for connections with axons from other neurons. This connectivity allows dendrites to gather and transmit electrochemical signals towards the cell body, facilitating communication within the nervous system.

The role of dendrites is crucial for the integrative function of neurons; they process incoming signals which can be excitatory or inhibitory, thus influencing whether the neuron will generate an action potential to send along the axon. In contrast, other structures such as axons are responsible for transmitting impulses away from the cell body. The speed of signal transmission is primarily improved by myelination of axons, not the dendrites, and neurotransmitter storage is typically managed by the presynaptic neuron at axon terminals, not dendrites. Therefore, the correct understanding of dendrites is that they are essential for receiving and conducting impulses towards the neuron's cell body.