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

13583 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are the key stages in phagocytosis?


What is the use of membranes within the cell?


What is the most important function of mitochondria?


How do the actions of steroid hormones cause proteins to be made?


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