Purkinje cell. Light micrograph of a Purkinje nerve cell from the cerebellum of the human brain. A Purkinje cell is composed of a flask-shaped cell body (lower left), from which branch numerous dendrites (upper frame). Purkinje cells form a layer in the lobes of the cerebellum. Nerve impulses from other cells flow to the Purkinje cells through their dendrites. From here the message is passed on to the white matter deep in the cerebellum. The cerebellum is the largest part of the hindbrain, and is essential for the maintenance of muscle tone, balance, and muscle coordination. Magnification: x200 at 35mm size.