Synapse

Definition

A synapse is the junction between two neurons where electrical or chemical signals are transmitted. It plays a critical role in neural communication and signaling within the nervous system.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Synapses can be either electrical or chemical, with chemical synapses being more common in the human nervous system.
2. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.
3. The synaptic cleft is the small gap between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons where neurotransmitters are released.
4. Reuptake inhibitors are drugs that affect synaptic transmission by preventing the reabsorption of neurotransmitters back into the presynaptic neuron.
5. Synapses can be excitatory or inhibitory, influencing whether an action potential will be generated in the postsynaptic neuron.

Review Questions

• What are the main types of synapses and which is more common?
• How do neurotransmitters function at a synapse?
• What role do reuptake inhibitors play in synaptic transmission?

Related terms

Neurotransmitter:

A chemical substance that transmits signals across a synapse between neurons.

Presynaptic Neuron: The neuron that releases neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft.

Postsynaptic Neuron: The neuron that receives the signal via neurotransmitter receptors on its membrane.