Cajal's Principles of Neuron Connectivity

Cajal's Principles of Neuron Connectivity describe how nerve cells, or neurons, connect and communicate in the brain and nervous system. He proposed that neurons are individual, separate cells that communicate via specialized connections called synapses. Each neuron has a single, unique growth process called an axon, which extends to connect with many other neurons' dendrites or cell bodies, forming complex networks. These connections are specific and directional, allowing for precise transmission of signals, which underpins brain functions like thinking, feeling, and movement. Essentially, Cajal showed that the nervous system is made up of many discrete neurons linked together selectively, creating intricate communication pathways.