Neurons have two main components, the cytosol, which is the main body of the neuron and consists of three parts: the cell membrane, the cytoplasm and the nucleus, which are mainly used to store nutrients, integrate, and issue nerve impulses. The neuron is surrounded by protrusions, its second component, which are divided into dendrites and axons. The dendrites are relatively short and are used to receive impulses from other neurons, while the axons are generally longer and extend outward in a filamentous fashion.