Which type of neurons are predominantly found in the dorsal root ganglia?

Correct option is B

The dorsal root ganglia (DRG) primarily contain pseudounipolar neurons, which are specialized sensory neurons. These neurons have a single process that splits into two branches:
1. One branch extends to the peripheral nervous system (connecting to sensory receptors in the skin, muscles, and joints).
2. The other branch projects into the central nervous system (spinal cord) to relay sensory information.
These neurons are essential for transmitting sensory signals like pain, temperature, and touch from the periphery to the spinal cord.
Explanation of each option:
· (a) Multipolar neurons – Incorrect. These neurons have multiple dendrites and a single axon and are mostly found in the brain and spinal cord (CNS), particularly in motor neurons and interneurons. They are not found in the dorsal root ganglia.
· (b) Pseudounipolar neurons – Correct answer. These neurons are found in sensory ganglia, including the dorsal root ganglia (DRG). They allow rapid conduction of sensory signals without requiring synapses in the ganglion itself.
· (c) Unipolar neurons – Incorrect. True unipolar neurons are rare in humans and are more common in invertebrates. They do not serve the sensory function seen in DRG neurons.
· (d) Bipolar neurons – Incorrect. Bipolar neurons have two processes (one dendrite and one axon) and are found in specialized sensory organs such as the retina (vision), olfactory bulb (smell), and inner ear (hearing and balance). They are not present in the DRG.