Neurons carry and transmit messages using a combination of electrical and chemical signals. Neurons are composed of three distinct parts – the soma or cell body, an axon, and multiple dendrites. Dendrites are responsible for receiving incoming neural impulses in electrochemical form. These impulses may be from various sense organs or from adjacent neurons. The nerve impulse or message is transmitted from the dendrites to the main body of the neuron – the soma – from where it is then transmitted to the axon. The message travels along the length of the axon to its terminal buttons, which release chemicals called neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters transmit the nerve impulse to another neuron, muscle or gland.