What type of neurons is responsible for processing sensory information in the body?

Sensory neurons are specialized cells that are directly responsible for processing sensory information from the environment and transmitting it to the central nervous system. They detect stimuli from sensory receptors in areas such as the skin, eyes, ears, and other sensory organs. Once activated by a stimulus, sensory neurons convert that information into electrical signals, known as action potentials, which travel along their axons to relay this information to the spinal cord and brain for interpretation.

This unique function of sensory neurons allows the body to respond appropriately to different stimuli, playing a critical role in our perception of the world around us. For example, they enable us to feel pain, temperature changes, or the sensation of touch. Without sensory neurons, we would be unable to interpret the various stimuli that inform our decisions and reactions to our environment.