What Defines a Cell as an Afferent Neuron

Question

What defines a cell as an afferent neuron?
A)It has the capacity to respond to environmental stimuli.
B)It is located at the periphery.
C)It has an axon that carries information to integrating centers.
D)It has receptor proteins in its membrane.

Accepted Answer

Afferent neurons are sensory neurons that carry information from sensory receptors towards the central nervous system. The characteristic that defines a cell as an afferent neuron is that it has an axon that carries information to integrating centers, which receive, process, and interpret sensory information. Choice A describes a general characteristic of neurons, as all neurons are capable of responding to stimuli. Choice B is not specific to afferent neurons, as neurons can be located in many parts of the body. Choice D describes a characteristic of receptor proteins, which are present in a variety of cell types, not just afferent neurons.