Synaptic transmission
Synaptic Transmission
Synaptic transmission (pronunciation: /sɪˈnæptɪk trænsˈmɪʃən/) is a fundamental process in the nervous system that involves the propagation of signals from one neuron to another across a synapse.
Etymology
The term "synaptic" is derived from "synapsis," which comes from the Greek words "syn" (together) and "haptein" (to fasten). "Transmission" comes from the Latin "transmissio," from "transmittere" (to send across or over).
Process
Synaptic transmission begins when an action potential reaches the axon terminal of a neuron. This triggers the release of neurotransmitter molecules into the synaptic cleft, the small gap between the neurons. These neurotransmitters then bind to receptors on the post-synaptic neuron, initiating a new action potential and continuing the signal.
Types
There are two main types of synaptic transmission: electrical synaptic transmission and chemical synaptic transmission. Electrical synaptic transmission involves direct, electrical communication between cells via gap junctions. Chemical synaptic transmission, on the other hand, relies on the release and reception of chemical neurotransmitters.
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.
- Synapse: The junction between two neurons or a neuron and a muscle cell, where a nerve impulse is transmitted.
- Axon: The long, threadlike part of a nerve cell along which impulses are conducted from the cell body to other cells.
- Dendrite: The branched projections of a neuron that act to propagate the electrochemical stimulation received from other neural cells to the cell body.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Synaptic transmission
- Wikipedia's article - Synaptic transmission
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