Comparison between Sensory Neuron and Motor neuron

By: Prof. Dr. Fazal Rehman Shamil | Last updated: February 3, 2024

 

Let me share with you a comparison between Sensory Neuron and Motor neuron.

 

AspectSensory NeuronsMotor Neurons
Direction of SignalTransmit signals from peripheral receptors e.g., skin, eyes, ears to the CNSTransmit signals from the CNS to peripheral effectors e.g., muscles, glands
Types

 

·        Nociceptors (pain)

·        Photoreceptors (vision)

·        Somatic motor neurons (voluntary muscles)

·        Autonomic motor neurons (involuntary muscles and glands)

Location of cell body Typically located in ganglia outside the CNSLocated in the CNS  e.g., spinal cord
DendritesReceive sensory stimuli from the environment or bodyReceive signals from other neurons, including interneurons
AxonTransmits signals toward the CNSTransmits signals away from the CNS
MyelinationSome are myelinatedMany are myelinated
Response to StimuliRespond to external and internal stimuli e.g., touch, temperature, painDo not respond to external stimuli; they transmit signals for muscle and gland activity
ExamplesAfferent neurons involved in touch, taste, vision, hearing, etc.Efferent neurons responsible for muscle movement and gland secretion