What is the sequence of events involved in transmission across a cholinergic synapse

For transmission across the synapse to be initiated, an action potential must arrive at the pre-synaptic knob and open voltage- gated ion channels. Once the channels are open, calcium ions are able to diffuse into the synaptic knob. This rapid influx in calcium causes the vesicles containing acetylcholine to fuse with the presynaptic membrane. Acetylcholine can then be released by exocytosis into the cleft and diffuse across until it reaches receptor sites on the postsynaptic membrane. These receptors are on the sodium ion channel, so when binding occurs, the channels open and there is an influx of sodium ions into the postsynaptic neurone. These sodium ions can then generate a new action potential and the process can occur again in the next synapse. 

ES
Answered by Ellen S. Biology tutor

13922 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain three ways in which the structure of the xylem vessels makes them well-adapted to their function.


What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis?


Explain the importance of mRNA in the process of protein synthesis and problems that can occur if there is a problem with the mRNA template?


Outline the process of protein synthesis (8 marks).


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning