FIGURE 2.1 Types of Neurons Neurons differ in size, shape, and complexity. The distinctive shapes of neurons reflect their specialized functions. Shown here are a few representative neuron types. Virtually all neurons have three basic parts: a cell body, an axon, and dendrites. In most neurons, the dendrites project from the cell body, but in sensory neurons, the dendrites extend from the opposite end of the axon, as shown here.