The signal that crosses a synapse is stopped when the
A) receiving cell runs out of sodium and is no longer able to respond to the stimulus.
B) receiving cell runs out of potassium and is no longer able to respond to the stimulus.
C) neurotransmitters are enzymatically broken down or transported back to the signaling cell.
D) neurotransmitters are actively transported into glia cells.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The signal that crosses a synapse is stopped when the neurotransmitters are enzymatically broken down or transported back to the signaling cell. This process is called reuptake, and it is a critical step in regulating the strength of a synaptic connection. If neurotransmitters continued to bind to receptors on the receiving cell indefinitely, the signal would eventually become overwhelming and could lead to a variety of neurological problems. Therefore, the synaptic cleft is designed to actively remove neurotransmitters from the area, allowing the signal to be terminated when it is no longer needed.

The Signal That Crosses a Synapse Is Stopped When the