has characteristic neuron pyramidal neuron BTO:0003102 pyramidal neuron pyramidal cell FMA:67310 https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_0000598 projection neuron Pyramidal neurons, or pyramidal cells, are a distinctive type of neuron named for the triangular shape of their soma, or cell body. The primary characteristic of these neurons is a large apical dendrite that ascends toward the cortical surface, numerous basal dendrites, and a single axon. These neurons are found within parts of the brain including the cerebral cortex, the hippocampus, and the amygdala, playing a critical role in cortex communication, cognitive function, and the relay of information within the brain's neural network. Functional roles of pyramidal neurons depend largely on their localization. However, all types of these neurons serve as principal cells within the grey matter of the brain, transmitting signals over long distances. Primarily, pyramidal cells function as excitatory neurons; they disseminate action potential outputs to other neurons which they are connected to across the synapse. In the cerebral cortex, pyramidal neurons are paramount for sensory perception and motor command, while those located in the hippocampus involve in memory and learning processes. Firing properties of these neurons such as regular spiking and bursting are notable features thought to play a role in synaptic plasticity and signaling. Together, their unique anatomical structure and intricate connectivity underpin their critical function in brain neural networks, significantly contributing to human cognitive abilities. In addition, abnormalities in pyramidal neurons have been linked to a range of neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders, emphasizing their importance in maintaining healthy neural function. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) Pyramidal neurons have a pyramid-shaped soma with a single axon, a large apical dendrite and multiple basal dendrites. The apex and an apical dendrite typically point toward the pial surface and other dendrites and an axon emerging from the base. The axons may have local collaterals but also project outside their region. Pyramidal neurons are found in the cerebral cortex, the hippocampus, and the amygdala. NIFSTD:sao862606388 FMA:86775 ZFA:0009273 central nervous system neuron pyramidal family morphology