Question

Give an account of synaptic transmission.

Answer 1

A synapse, in easy term is “to fasten together”. It is a structure by which a nerve cell, also called a neuron , passes an electric or chemical signal to another neuron. Most synapses occur chemically by chemical messengers. Neurotransmitters are released here. Some are electrical where the ions flow between cells.

Complete answer:
- A neuron has three main parts; the dendrites, axon and cell body which is also called soma.
- Neurons can communicate with each other by the process of synaptic transmission.
- Information that is obtained, passes down the axon part of the neuron as electrical impulse. This is called the action potential. When this action potential reaches the end of the axon part, it has to then be transferred to other neurons or tissue.
- There is a synaptic gap between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neuron which has to be crossed.
- At the terminal end of axon there are synaptic vesicles that have chemical messengers which are referred to as neurotransmitters. When action potential reaches synaptic vesicles, the contents of neurotransmitters are released. They will then transport the signal across the synaptic gap.
- The process is completed when they bind to receptor sites on postsynaptic cells.

Note: The brain controls the body and therefore its functioning should be in a proper manner. For this, the proper coordination of neurons is a must. Calcium ions are very important in the synaptic transmission process. They trigger neurotransmitter release into the synaptic cleft. They are also responsible for regulation of responses of central nervous tissues to any injury. Magnesium is known to block or interfere with calcium which hinders the neurotransmitter release.