Pyramidal neurons

Two-photon micrograph showing layer 5 pyramidal neurons from a cortical brain slice. Neurons were visualised using a fluorescent calcium indicator. This image was produced as part of research to investigate the activity and plasticity of pyramidal neuron dendrites depending on their location. Pyramidal cells are so called as they have a pyramid shaped cell body (or soma) and characterised by long branching dendrites. They are found in the forebrain (cortex and hippocampus) of mammals and thought to be involved in cognitive function.