Whether a neurotransmitter has an excitatory or inhibitory effect depends on:
A)the chemical structure of the neurotransmitter
B)the characteristics of the membrane of the sending neuron
C)the chemical structure of the presynaptic membrane
D)the characteristics of the membrane of the receiving neuron

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The characteristics of the membrane of the receiving neuron, specifically the types of receptors present, determine whether a neurotransmitter has an excitatory or inhibitory effect. Excitatory neurotransmitters bind to receptors that cause depolarization of the receiving neuron, while inhibitory neurotransmitters bind to receptors that cause hyperpolarization of the receiving neuron. The chemical structure of the neurotransmitter and the characteristics of the sending neuron and presynaptic membrane can influence how much neurotransmitter is released, but do not determine whether it is excitatory or inhibitory.

Whether a Neurotransmitter Has an Excitatory or Inhibitory Effect Depends