A sketch illustrating functional regions of a multipolar neuron. The cell body and dendrites (dendritic zone) receive synaptic input from other neurons. The axon conducts excitation to distant sites. Terminal branches of the axon (telodendritic zone) transmit excitation via synapses onto other neurons or synapses within muscle or gland. Differences in plasma membrane protein (receptors & channels) constitutes the basis for functional specialization within an individual neuron.