Neuromuscular junction (NMJ)

Definition

The neuromuscular junction is a specialized synapse between a motor neuron and a skeletal muscle fiber, facilitating the transmission of electrical signals that result in muscle contraction. It plays a pivotal role in converting neural commands into mechanical movement.

Related terms

Motor Neuron:

A type of nerve cell that connects with muscles, sending signals that control muscle contractions.

Acetylcholine:

A neurotransmitter released by motor neurons at the neuromuscular junction, which binds to receptors on muscle cells causing them to contract.

Synapse:

A junction where information is transmitted from one neuron to another or from a neuron to a target cell (e.g., a muscle or gland)