Week 1: The Synapse

Question 1

Synapse

Answer 1

Carry info from axon terminals of one neuron to a postsynaptic cell

Question 2

Types of synapses

Answer 2

• Axo-somatic
• Axo-dendtritic
• Axo-axonic

Question 3

Process of communication b/t neurons

Answer 3

1) Action potential reaches presynaptic terminal
2) Calcium enters presynaptic terminal
3) Vesicles move toward release site
4) Presynaptic terminal releases neurotransmitter
5) Neurotransmitter binds to postsynaptic membrane receptor
6) Membrane channel changes shape and ions enter postsynaptic cell, propogating action potential

Question 4

What happens to the next neuron?

Answer 4

• Postsynaptic inhibition

- Postsynaptic excitation