Synapses

Function of a synapse?

Function: the structure that allows us to communicate between a neuron to another cell. 

Function of presynaptic neuron?

fires an action potential and reaches the synaptic knob of that neuron.

Function of synaptic vesicles?

hold chemicals known as neurotransmitters, they are held by vesicles. 

• Further context: After that neuron fires, you have the AP come down and now need to stimulate the release of certain chemicals. These chemicals will be known as neurotransmitters. 

Function of pre synaptic vesicles?

to hold the chemicals we call neurotransmitters

What does a synaptic vesicles undergo once it reaches the synaptic knob?

Exocytosis

Function of synaptic cleft?

the neurotransmitters will diffuse across it and need to interact with certain channels that are found on the postsynaptic cell (muscles, gland, neurons) . We have to use specific types of channels.

Which ion channel is involved in the diffusion between neurotransmitters and the postsynaptic cell?

Sodium channels (Na+)

What role does exocytosis play in synapses?

It will allow the synaptic vesicles to release the neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft (space)

Describe the flow of AP for the synapse

1. AP travels down presynaptic neuron to synaptic knob

2. Synaptic vesicles holding neurotransmitters undergo exocytosis from AP signaling

3. Neurotransmitters enter synaptic cleft

4. Neurotransmitters bind to sodium channels

5. Sodium channels open and sodium ions enter the cell —> wave of depolarization