Reuptake
Reuptake
Reuptake (/riːˈʌpteɪk/), also referred to as re-uptake or uptake, is a biological process that occurs in neurotransmission. It involves the movement of a neurotransmitter from the synaptic cleft back into the neuron that released it, effectively terminating the signal between the neurons.
Etymology
The term "reuptake" is derived from the prefix "re-", meaning "again" or "back", and "uptake", which refers to the absorption or taking in of substances by a living organism or cell.
Process
In the process of reuptake, a neurotransmitter that has been released into the synaptic cleft is reabsorbed back into the neuron that released it. This is done through a process known as active transport, where the neurotransmitter is pumped back into the neuron against its concentration gradient. This process is facilitated by reuptake transporters such as the serotonin transporter, norepinephrine transporter, and dopamine transporter.
Clinical significance
Reuptake is a target for a variety of drugs, including antidepressants, which work by blocking the reuptake of certain neurotransmitters, thereby increasing their availability in the synaptic cleft. This can enhance or prolong the action of the neurotransmitters and improve symptoms of conditions such as depression and anxiety disorders.
Related terms
- Neurotransmitter: A chemical substance that is released at the end of a nerve fiber by the arrival of a nerve impulse and, by diffusing across the synapse or junction, causes the transfer of the impulse to another nerve fiber, a muscle fiber, or some other structure.
- Synaptic cleft: The small gap between two adjacent neurons, consisting of the presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes, the space between them, and structures within this space.
- Serotonin transporter: A type of transporter protein that transports serotonin from the synaptic cleft back to the presynaptic neuron.
- Norepinephrine transporter: A type of transporter protein that transports norepinephrine from the synaptic cleft back to the presynaptic neuron.
- Dopamine transporter: A type of transporter protein that transports dopamine from the synaptic cleft back to the presynaptic neuron.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Reuptake
- Wikipedia's article - Reuptake
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