Neurotransmission

Neurotransmission

chemical messaging

between neurons

Neurons pass information to other neurons as electrical signals.

But the cells don’t physically touch one another, and the electrical signals can’t jump across the tiny spaces in between.

Fill in the Blank

The space between two neurons is called a _____.

Fill in the Blank

The chemical messengers that are sent across the synaptic cleft are called ___.

Open Ended

Name one specific neurotransmitter.

Multiple Choice

What's happening here?

• Sodium and potassium ions are moving across the membrane, creating an action potential.

• The neuron is becoming hyperpolarized.

• The neuron is taking a pause called the refractory period.

• Neurotransmitter molecules are being released across the synaptic gap (synapse).

Multiple Choice

What's happening here?

• The neuron is becoming depolarized.

• Neurotransmitter molecules are crossing the synapse and binding to receptor sites on the receiving neuron.

• Neurotransmitter reuptake is being blocked.

• Electricity is being sent across the synapse.

Open Ended

What will happen next?

Action Potential & Neurotransmission:

• 1) depolarization of neuron (inflow of sodium & potassium ions)

• 2) action potential travels down axon

• (3) neurotransmitter molecules are released from axon terminals into synapses

Action Potential & Neurotransmission, cont'd.

• 4) neurotransmitter molecules stick to receptor sites on the receiving neuron & unlock channels that allow electrically charged atoms to flow in

• 5) this either excites or inhibits the receiving neuron's readiness

• 6) neurotransmitter molecules that remain in the synapse either drift away or are reabsorbed by the sending neuron (reuptake)