Neurotransmitter Release Mechanisms

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the presynaptic membrane and neurotransmitter release.

Presynaptic membrane

The part of the neuron where neurotransmitter release occurs.

Action potential

An electrical signal that travels down the axon to trigger neurotransmitter release.

Exocytosis

The process through which synaptic vesicles release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter that binds to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane, inducing an excitatory postsynaptic potential.

Ionotropic receptors

Receptors that allow ions to flow through when bound to a neurotransmitter.

Calcium ions

Ions that enter the presynaptic terminal, triggering the fusion of synaptic vesicles.

Inhibitory postsynaptic potential

A change in the postsynaptic neuron that makes it less likely to fire, often induced by neurotransmitters like GABA.

Reuptake

The process of neurotransmitter transporters carrying neurotransmitters back into the presynaptic membrane.

Sodium channels

Channels that open upon neurotransmitter binding, allowing sodium ions to enter the cell and potentially induce an action potential.

Chloride channels

Channels that open following neurotransmitter binding, allowing negatively charged chloride ions to enter the cell, resulting in inhibition.