Editing Dendrite (section)

== Other Functions and Properties ==
Most excitatory neurons receive synaptic inputs across their dendritic branches, which results in electrical and biochemical compartmentalization, allowing for a phenomenon known as [[Dendritic spike|dendritic spikes]], where local regenerative potentials contribute to plasticity. In [[Pyramidal cell|pyramidal neurons]] dendritic trees have two main functions that allow them to demonstrate an electrical and biochemical compartmentalization that may integrate synaptic inputs prior to transmission to the soma, as well as make up computation units in the brain. The first main function allows for differential synaptic processing due to distribution of synaptic inputs across the dendritic branches. The processing of these synaptic inputs often involve feedforward or feedback mechanisms that vary based on the type of neuron or brain region. The opposite but combined functions of feedforward and feedback processes at different times is proposed to associate different information streams that determine neural selectivity to different stimuli. 

The second function of dendritic trees in this regard is their ability to shape signal propagation that allows for sub-cellular compartmentalization. Large [[Depolarization|depolarizations]] can lead to local regenerative potentials, which may allow neurons to transition from  stages of isolated dendritic events (segregation) to combined dendritic events (integration). Dendritic compartmentalization has implications in information processing, where it serves as a foundation of trans-neuron signaling, processing stimuli, computation, neuronal expressivity, and mitigating [[neuronal noise]]. Likewise, this phenomenon also underlies the storage of information by optimizing learning capacity and storage capacity. In other types of neurons, such as those of the [[Superior olivary complex|medial superior olive]], have differing dendritic properties that allow for [[Coincidence detection in neurobiology|coincidence detection]]. In contrast, in [[Retinal ganglion cell|retinal ganglion cells]], dendritic integration is used for computing directional selectivity, allowing neurons to respond to direction of movement. Therefore dendritic trees serve various purposes in integrating and processing various different types of stimuli and underly various  neurological processes.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Makarov |first1=Roman |last2=Pagkalos |first2=Michalis |last3=Poirazi |first3=Panayiota |date=2023-12-01 |title=Dendrites and efficiency: Optimizing performance and resource utilization |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S095943882300137X |journal=Current Opinion in Neurobiology |volume=83 |pages=102812 |doi=10.1016/j.conb.2023.102812 |pmid=37980803 |issn=0959-4388|arxiv=2306.07101 }}</ref>