Synaptic Transmission and Neurotransmitters Quiz

Synapse

A synapse is the junction between two neurons or between a neuron and an effector cell (such as a muscle or gland cell) where the transmission of an electrical or chemical signal occurs. Neurons are the primary cells involved in transmitting signals throughout the body, and synapses are the means by which these signals are transmitted from one neuron to another or from a neuron to an effector cell.

Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters are chemical substances that are released from the presynaptic neuron and bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, thereby transmitting a signal across the synapse. There are many different types of neurotransmitters, and each type is responsible for transmitting a specific type of signal. Some common neurotransmitters include glutamate, which is an excitatory neurotransmitter, and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which is an inhibitory neurotransmitter.

Synaptic Transmission

Synaptic transmission is the process by which a neurotransmitter is released from the presynaptic neuron and binds to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron. This process can be either excitatory or inhibitory, depending on the type of neurotransmitter involved. Excitatory synapses are those in which the neurotransmitter increases the likelihood that the postsynaptic neuron will fire an action potential. Inhibitory synapses are those in which the neurotransmitter decreases the likelihood that the postsynaptic neuron will fire an action potential.

Excitatory Synapses

Excitatory synapses are those in which the neurotransmitter increases the likelihood that the postsynaptic neuron will fire an action potential. Glutamate is a common excitatory neurotransmitter, and it binds to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, leading to an increase in the probability that the postsynaptic neuron will fire an action potential.

Inhibitory Synapses

Inhibitory synapses are those in which the neurotransmitter decreases the likelihood that the postsynaptic neuron will fire an action potential. GABA is a common inhibitory neurotransmitter, and it binds to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, leading to a decrease in the probability that the postsynaptic neuron will fire an action potential.

Synaptic Plasticity

Synaptic plasticity is the ability of the synapse to change in strength in response to changes in the activity of the neurons that it connects. This ability allows the brain to adapt to new experiences and to modify its responses to stimuli. Synaptic plasticity is thought to play a key role in learning and memory, as well as in the development of certain neurological and psychiatric disorders