What is the role of neurons in the nervous system?

Neurons play a crucial role in the nervous system primarily by transmitting electrical signals. This capability allows them to communicate information throughout the body, facilitating responses to stimuli and coordination of functions. Neurons send and receive signals through a complex network, linking sensory inputs, motor outputs, and internal processing, which is essential for all physiological activities.

While other options highlight important functions in the body, such as hormone production and memory storage, these are not the primary roles of neurons. Hormones are produced by glands, the brain's protective mechanisms involve structures like the skull and membranes, and memory storage predominantly occurs in neural networks rather than being a function ascribed to individual neurons. Thus, the primary function of transmitting electrical signals is fundamental to the operation of the nervous system, making it the correct choice.