Signal transmission at synapses & Electrical synapses Flashcards
the neuron before the synapse
presynaptic neuron
the neuron sending the signal
presynaptic neuron
the neuron after the synapse, the one recieving the signal
postsynaptic neuron
What are connexons?
proteins in the plasma membrane of the cell
What do connexons allow for?
the rapid movement of ions
Connexons (proteins in the plasma membrane of the cell) allow for the rapid movement of ions.
electrical synapses
What are 3 advantages of electrical synapses?
faster communication, no binding to recpetor
results in the synchronization of neurons
movement of ions can occur in either direction
Electrical synapses are rare, where are they mostly found?
embryonic tissues that need a fast way of communicating
In what muscles do electrical synapses play a role?
adjusting the intrinsic muscles of the eye in adults
What determines whether or not threshold is met?
the amount of neurotransmitter released
What type of synapse is much more common than electrical synapses?
chemical synapses
How do chemical synapses occur?
in one direction
Chemical synapses can be _______ or _________
excitatory or inhibitory
