Functional Classification of Neurons

Based upon direction impulses conducted.

Sensory or afferent:

–        Conduct impulses from sensory receptors into CNS.

Motor or efferent:

–        Conduct impulses out of CNS to effector organs.

Association or interneurons:

–        Located entirely within the CNS.

–        Serve an integrative function.

Functional Classes of Neurons

 Neurons are classified in three ways:

a. Afferent neurons transmit information into the CNS from receptors at their peripheral endings.

b. Efferent neurons transmit information out of the CNS to effector cells.

c. Interneurons lie entirely within the CNS and form circuits with other interneurons or connect afferent and efferent neurons.