Messages are transmitted from one neuron to another through the synapse, a small gap between neurons where chemical signals called neurotransmitters are released by the presynaptic neuron and bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron. This process converts electrical signals within a neuron into chemical signals that cross the synaptic cleft and then back into electrical signals in the receiving neuron, allowing communication between neurons.
How Transmission Occurs
- The sending neuron generates an electrical impulse called an action potential that travels down its axon to the axon terminal.
- When the action potential reaches the axon terminal, it causes the release of neurotransmitters into the synapse.
- These neurotransmitters cross the synaptic cleft and bind to specific receptors on the dendrites or cell body of the receiving neuron.
- Binding of neurotransmitters to receptors triggers electrical changes in the receiving neuron, which may generate a new action potential.
Key Components
- Synapse: The junction between two neurons.
- Neurotransmitters: Chemical messengers released into the synapse.
- Receptors: Proteins on the receiving neuron that bind neurotransmitters.
- Action potential: Electrical impulse that initiates neurotransmitter release.
Thus, the transmission of messages between neurons is primarily chemical at the synapse, converting electrical impulses into chemical signals and back to electrical signals in the receiving neuron.
