At glutamate (excitatory) synapses, the postsynaptic thickening is _____ as compared with a GABA (inhibitory) synapse.
A) thinner
B) absent
C) greater
D) narrower

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The postsynaptic thickening at glutamate synapses is greater than at GABA synapses because glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter which means it excites the postsynaptic cell to fire an action potential, whereas GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter which means it inhibits the postsynaptic cell from firing an action potential. Therefore, glutamate synapses need a larger postsynaptic thickening to accommodate the influx of positive ions and subsequent depolarization of the postsynaptic cell.

At Glutamate (Excitatory) Synapses, the Postsynaptic Thickening Is _____ as Compared