18 Questions
Which mechanism is responsible for the rapid response of neurotransmitters that open ion channels?
Direct mechanism that promotes fast synapses
What is the primary function of enzymes present in the synaptic cleft?
To quickly break down neurotransmitters and stop the signal
How do neurotransmitters affect the membrane potential of the postsynaptic neuron?
Neurotransmitters have either excitatory or inhibitory effects, depending on the receptor type
What is the primary mechanism by which neurotransmitters are inactivated and removed from the synaptic cleft?
Neurotransmitters are broken down by enzymes in the synaptic cleft
Which type of neurotransmitter receptor is responsible for the long-lasting, 'slow synaptic' effects?
Receptors that act through second messengers
What is the primary function of synaptic vesicles in the presynaptic neuron?
To store and release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft
What is the primary function of synaptic vesicles in the presynaptic neuron?
To store and release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft
What is the primary function of the synaptic cleft in the synaptic transmission process?
To facilitate the diffusion of neurotransmitters from the presynaptic to the postsynaptic neuron
What is the primary function of ion channels in the postsynaptic neuron during synaptic transmission?
To allow the flow of ions across the postsynaptic cell membrane, leading to changes in membrane potential
What is the primary role of neurotransmitters in the synaptic transmission process?
To bind to neurotransmitter receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, leading to changes in membrane potential
What is the primary function of neurotransmitter receptors on the postsynaptic neuron?
To bind to neurotransmitters and, in turn, open ion channels in the postsynaptic cell membrane
What is the primary difference between an EPSP and an IPSP in the postsynaptic neuron?
EPSPs increase the likelihood of an action potential, while IPSPs decrease the likelihood of an action potential
Which of the following is the primary mechanism by which neurotransmitters are released from the presynaptic neuron into the synaptic cleft?
Vesicular transport and exocytosis
Which of the following is the primary function of ion channels in the post-synaptic neuron during synaptic transmission?
Providing a pathway for the flow of ions across the post-synaptic membrane
Which of the following neurotransmitters is primarily responsible for excitatory synaptic transmission in the central nervous system?
Glutamate
Which of the following is the primary mechanism by which inhibitory neurotransmitters, such as GABA, reduce the likelihood of the post-synaptic neuron reaching the action potential threshold?
Decreasing the efflux of chloride ions from the post-synaptic neuron
Which of the following is the primary mechanism by which temporal summation occurs at a single synapse?
Increased frequency of action potentials in the presynaptic neuron
Which of the following is the primary mechanism by which spatial summation occurs at a single post-synaptic neuron?
Simultaneous stimulation of the post-synaptic neuron by multiple presynaptic neurons
Test your knowledge on presynaptic neurons, synaptic cleft, and postsynaptic neurons. Learn about the functions of synaptic vesicles, neurotransmitters, and the role of the synaptic cleft in neural communication.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
