If a drug inhibits the uptake of an excitatory neurotransmitter after it has been released into the synaptic cleft, what is the most likely result?
A) an increased number of IPSPs
B) an increased number of EPSPs
C) a prolonged hyperpolarization
D) a decreased number of IPSPs
E) a decreased number of EPSPs

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Inhibiting the uptake of an excitatory neurotransmitter means it stays in the synaptic cleft longer, continuing to stimulate the postsynaptic neuron. This leads to an increased number of Excitatory Postsynaptic Potentials (EPSPs), enhancing the chance of reaching the threshold for an action potential.

If a Drug Inhibits the Uptake of an Excitatory Neurotransmitter