What kind of cell is capable of detecting stimuli and sending signals?

Nerve cells, also known as neurons, are specialized cells designed for the purpose of detecting stimuli and transmitting signals throughout the body. They play a crucial role in the nervous system by receiving information from various sources, processing that information, and communicating it to other cells. This is achieved through a complex structure that includes dendrites, which receive signals; a cell body, which processes that information; and an axon, which transmits signals away from the cell.

In contrast, muscle cells primarily function in contraction and movement, responding to signals but not actively sending out their own signals in the way that nerve cells do. Ciliated epithelial cells have a different role, primarily involved in movement and transport of substances along surfaces, rather than communication of stimuli. The term 'specialised cell' is broad and includes various types of cells with specific functions, but it does not pinpoint the unique ability of nerve cells to detect and transmit signals. Thus, the specific characteristics and functions of nerve cells make them the correct answer to the question.