Communication of neural signals across the synapse involves
A) the opening of transmitter-gated channels in the axon terminal.
B) voltage changes that open chloride channels in the presynaptic membrane.
C) vesicles that take up transmitter molecules into the axon terminal.
D) the binding of transmitter at postsynaptic receptors triggering membrane potentials.
E) direct electrical contact of the pre- and post-synaptic membranes.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The communication of neural signals across the synapse involves the release of neurotransmitters from the presynaptic neuron, which then bind to specific receptor sites on the postsynaptic neuron. This binding triggers a series of events that can either excite or inhibit the postsynaptic neuron, leading to the transmission or blocking of the neural signal. This process is facilitated by multiple steps, including the opening of ion channels in the axon terminal, the uptake of neurotransmitters into vesicles, and the binding of transmitter molecules at postsynaptic receptors. However, the key step that allows for communication between neurons is the binding of transmitter at postsynaptic receptors, making choice D the best option.

Communication of Neural Signals Across the Synapse Involves