Relay Neuron - GCSE Psychology Definition

Reviewed by: Lucy Vinson

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A relay neuron, also known as an interneuron, is a type of nerve cell that plays an important role in the communication process within the brain and spinal cord. It acts like a messenger between sensory neurons, which carry information from the body to the central nervous system, and motor neurons, which send signals from the central nervous system to muscles and glands. Relay neurons help process and interpret the information received from sensory neurons, ensuring that appropriate responses are triggered, such as moving your hand away from something hot. They are central to how we understand and respond to the world around us, making them a key topic in GCSE Psychology.

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Lucy Vinson

Reviewer: Lucy Vinson

Expertise: Psychology Content Creator

Lucy has been a part of Save My Exams since 2024 and is responsible for all things Psychology & Social Science in her role as Subject Lead. Prior to this, Lucy taught for 5 years, including Computing (KS3), Geography (KS3 & GCSE) and Psychology A Level as a Subject Lead for 4 years. She loves teaching research methods and psychopathology. Outside of the classroom, she has provided pastoral support for hundreds of boarding students over a four year period as a boarding house tutor.

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