Final answer:
Neurons are specialized cells that conduct electrical signals in response to changes and stimuli, with neuroglia supporting these functions. Muscle cells can also create action potentials, and sensory receptors are specialized neurons that respond to specific stimuli.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cells that conduct electrical signals, detect changes inside and outside of the body, and respond to nerve impulses are known as neurons. Neurons are the primary cells of the nervous system and have a unique structure that includes dendrites, which receive signals; a cell body that processes these signals; and a long axon that transmits electrical signals to other neurons, muscles, or glands. The axons of many neurons are insulated by a myelin sheath, which speeds up nerve conduction. Apart from neurons, the nervous tissue comprises neuroglial cells like astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes, and Schwann cells, which support and protect neuronal functions.
Another type of cell that can create action potentials are muscle cells. These cells contract in response to nerve impulses and share physiological similarities with nerve cells, including the presence of hybrid cells in organs like the heart that possess characteristics of both muscle and nerve cells. Specialized nerve cells known as sensory receptors detect specific types of stimuli and generate nerve impulses in response.