What do the branched projections of a neuron called dendrites do?

Dendrites are specialized structures on neurons that play a crucial role in neural communication. Their main function is to receive information from other neurons and sensory receptors. This is achieved through the dendritic branches, which have numerous synaptic receptors that can bind neurotransmitters released from the axon terminals of adjacent neurons. As these neurotransmitters bind to the receptors, they can cause changes in the electrical potential of the dendrite, leading to the generation of a nerve impulse if the signal is strong enough.

The design of dendrites, with their extensive branching patterns, increases the surface area available for receiving signals, making them highly efficient in gathering information from multiple sources. This allows the neuron to integrate input information before determining whether to propagate an action potential down its axon. Thus, dendrites are essential for the communication networks in the nervous system.