synapse Flashcards
What happens at the synapse?
AP in one cell cause (or prevent) AP in another cell
define a synapse
the junction between two cells
what are the two types of cells at the synapse?
presynaptic
postsynaptic
the synapse is
the site where APs in one cell cause AP in another cell
what is an example of an electrical synapse?
gap junction
where do gap junctions exist
where a bunch of cells need to “fire” at once, cardiac and some smooth muscle
how do gap junctions allow many cells to “fire” at once?
local current can “flow” between cells
what defines a chemical synapse
NTCs are released by APs and trigger APs
what are the 3 major parts of the chemical synapse
presynaptic terminal
synaptic cleft
postsynaptic membrane
an AP causes what ion on enter the cell that triggers release of NTC?
Ca++
what carries the NTC out of the post synaptic terminal?
synaptic vesicles
what enzyme helps in removal/recycling of NTC Ach?
acetylcholinesterase
what is recycled within the presynaptic neuron?
Choline
what is disposed of after acetylcholinesterase action breaks apart Ach?
acetic acid
Release of NTC is designed to either _____ or _____ AP
excite
inhibit
