Dendrite

A **dendrite** is a branched cytoplasmic extension of a neuron (nerve cell) that serves as the primary site for receiving and integrating synaptic inputs from other neurons[1][2][3][4]. Dendrites typically extend from the soma (cell body) and form complex tree-like structures called "dendritic trees," which greatly increase the surface area available for synaptic connections[1][2][9]. They contain organelles such as ribosomes and endoplasmic reticulum involved in local protein synthesis during signal transmission[2]. Dendrites receive chemical signals—primarily neurotransmitters—released by axon terminals of presynaptic neurons. These signals bind to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane of the dendrite, leading to changes in ion permeability and membrane potential. The resulting electrical changes are integrated within the neuron; if sufficient excitatory input accumulates at the axon hillock region of the soma, an action potential may be generated[1][3][5]. Dendrites play a critical role in neural communication by determining how incoming information is processed and whether it leads to neuronal firing. Their structure can vary widely among different types of neurons—for example, Purkinje cells have highly elaborate dendritic trees allowing them to receive thousands of inputs simultaneously[7]. **Note:** "Nerve cell dendrites" refers to a subcellular component or anatomical feature rather than a discrete molecular target such as an enzyme or receptor. Therefore, it is not considered a therapeutic target itself but rather part of cellular anatomy essential for neuronal function. Drugs do not directly target "dendrites" per se; instead, they may affect proteins localized on or within them (such as neurotransmitter receptors)[1][4]. Thus: - **is_target:** false — Dendrites themselves are not direct drug targets. - **is_incorrect:** true — The entry refers to an anatomical structure rather than a canonical molecular target. For further structured data extraction or mapping efforts focused on drug targets or biomarkers, this entry should be flagged as non-canonical/incorrect due to its nature as an anatomical feature rather than a specific molecule or receptor suitable for pharmacological targeting.

Other names

dendronnerve cell dendriteneuronal dendritedendritic processdendritic branch