Presynaptic neuron

Presynaptic Neuron

A Presynaptic Neuron (pronounced: pre-syn-apt-ic neu-ron) is a type of Neuron that sends out Neurotransmitters to another neuron during Synaptic Transmission. The term "Presynaptic" is derived from the Greek words "pre" meaning "before", and "synapsis" meaning "junction".

Function

The primary function of a Presynaptic Neuron is to transmit signals to a Postsynaptic Neuron. This is achieved through the release of neurotransmitters from the Axon Terminal of the Presynaptic Neuron. These neurotransmitters then bind to Receptors on the Postsynaptic Neuron, initiating a response.

Related Terms

Neuron: The basic working unit of the brain, a specialized cell designed to transmit information to other nerve cells, muscle, or gland cells.
Neurotransmitter: Chemicals that transmit signals from a neuron to a target cell across a synapse.
Synaptic Transmission: The process by which signaling molecules are released by a neuron, and bind to and activate the receptors of another neuron.
Axon Terminal: The very end of a branch of a nerve's axon, a long slender nerve fiber that conducts electrical signals to a nerve synapse.
Postsynaptic Neuron: The neuron to which the neurotransmitter binds after being released from the presynaptic neuron.
Receptor (biochemistry): A protein molecule that receives chemical signals from outside a cell.