What specialized cells in the human body are responsible for transmitting nerve impulses?

Neurons are the specialized cells in the human body responsible for transmitting nerve impulses. They are integral to the nervous system, which is responsible for relaying information throughout the body. Neurons consist of three main parts: the cell body, dendrites, and axon. The dendrites receive signals from other neurons or sensory receptors, while the axon transmits the nerve impulses away from the cell body to other neurons or to muscles and glands, facilitating communication within the body.

Neurons maintain the ability to generate and conduct electrical signals, which are essential for functions such as reflexes and the coordination of actions. This specialized function distinguishes them from other cell types in the body.

Other cell types mentioned, like muscle cells, epithelial cells, and red blood cells, serve different purposes. Muscle cells enable movement, epithelial cells form protective layers and structures for absorption or secretion, and red blood cells are primarily involved in transporting oxygen. None of them have the inherent ability to transmit nerve impulses like neurons do.