Chemical Messengers

Definition

Chemical messengers, also known as neurotransmitters, are molecules that transmit signals from one neuron to another across the synapse.

Related terms

Receptors:

Proteins on the receiving neuron that detect and bind to specific neurotransmitters.

Excitatory Neurotransmitters: Neurotransmitters that increase the likelihood of an action potential in the receiving neuron.

Inhibitory Neurotransmitters: Neurotransmitters that decrease the likelihood of an action potential in the receiving neuron.