Biology – Control and coordination in mammals | e-Consult
Control and coordination in mammals (1 questions)
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The cholinergic synapse is a type of synapse where the neurotransmitter is acetylcholine (ACh). It consists of the following key components:
- Presynaptic terminal: This is the end of the axon of the presynaptic neuron. It contains vesicles filled with ACh.
- Synaptic cleft: This is the space between the presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes.
- Postsynaptic membrane: This is the membrane of the postsynaptic neuron, which contains acetylcholine receptors.
Role of each component:
- Presynaptic terminal: Stores and releases ACh. The action potential arriving at the presynaptic terminal triggers an influx of calcium ions (Ca2+). This influx triggers the fusion of ACh-containing vesicles with the presynaptic membrane, releasing ACh into the synaptic cleft.
- Synaptic cleft: Provides the space for ACh to diffuse across to the postsynaptic membrane.
- Postsynaptic membrane: Contains ACh receptors (either nicotinic or muscarinic). ACh diffuses across the synaptic cleft and binds to these receptors, triggering a response in the postsynaptic neuron.