Neurones & Synaptic Transmission

Question 1

What is the process of synaptic transmission?

Answer 1

1. Information is passed down the axon of the presynaptic neurone as an electrical impulse known as an action potential
2. The action potential stimulates the release of neurotransmitters from the vesicles
3. The neurotransmitters diffuse across the synaptic cleft down a concentration gradient
4. The neurotransmitters either attach to the receptors on the postsynaptic membrane or go through the re-uptake valves
5. Once the receptors have been activated, they either produce an excitation or inhibitory effects on the postsynaptic neurone, making it more or less likely to fire the impulse