Describe the process of synaptic neurotransmission

Neurotransmission is a mechanism of propagating an electrical signal between neurons via the movement of charged particles. It is initiated when the arrival of an action potential at the axon terminal triggers calcium entry via voltage-gated Ca channels. This causes neurotransmitter-containing vesicles to fuse with the pre-synaptic membrane, and release their contents into the cleft. The neurotransmitter molecules then bind to their respective receptors on the post-synaptic membrane, causing a respective influx of either positively- or negatively-charged ions - through, for instance, ligand-gated Na channels. This causes either a depolarisation or hyperpolarisation of the post-synaptic cell, leading either to an EPSP or IPSP which influences the likelihood of action potential generation.

BH
Answered by Betsy H. Biology tutor

4344 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the ways in which LDLs and HDLs affect the formation of atheromas.


(b) Cigarette smoke contains nicotine. Nicotine is a vasoconstrictor that reduces the diameter of some blood vessels. (i) Using this information, explain why smoking increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). How do I approach this?


Describe IVF


three part question 1. what are dissacharides 2. what are maltose, lactose and sucrose formed of 3. what is the bond between them called


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning