What is the sequence of events in the process of synaptic transmission?

Answer 1

Neurons communicate with each other by sending electrical signals across a synapse. In a three neuron loop the series of events that happen in synaptic transmission are as follows:

• Neuron 1 sends an electrical signal (action potential) down its axon towards the synapse.
• The action potential causes the release of neurotransmitters (chemicals) from the terminal button of Neuron 1 into the synaptic cleft.
• The neurotransmitters bind to the receptors of Neuron 2.
• This binding triggers a new action potential in Neuron 2 which travels down its axon.
• The action potential causes the release of neurotransmitters (chemicals) from the terminal button of Neuron 2 into the synaptic cleft.
• The neurotransmitters bind to the receptors of Neuron 3.
• This binding triggers a new action potential in Neuron 3 which travels down its axon.
• The action potential causes the release of neurotransmitters (chemicals) from the terminal button of Neuron 3 into the synaptic cleft.
• The neurotransmitters bind to the receptors of Neuron 1 closing the loop.

This series of events is repeated continuously allowing for the communication between neurons in a three neuron loop.

Answer 2

Nerve impulse stimulates bouton, transmitter deactivated by bouton, electrical changes in receiving cell
Graded potential in the axon -> once threshold is reached, action potential is induced -> by saltatory conduction, action potential is propagated along the axon.

At the presynaptic knob, after an action potential is induced, Ca ions flow in, causing vesicles containing neurotransmitters to fuse with the presynaptic membrane, releasing the neurotransmitters. The neurotransmitters diffuse across the synaptic cleft and then attaches to the receptors on the postsynaptic membrane. These open Na channels, which allows the influx of Na ions to produce an action potential. The neurotransmitters are then degraded, being sent back to the presynaptic knob

Answer 3

Post synaptic synapse presyaptic
presynaptic neuron, synapse, and postsynaptic neuron