Chapter 27.1, Problem 3LO

Summary Introduction

To describe:

The structure and function of a chemical synapse.

Given:

Before an action potential moves into the next neuron, it crosses a tiny gap between the neurons called a synapse.

Introduction:

The junction point between the axon terminal of one neuron (presynaptic neuron) and the dendrites of the adjacent neuron (post synaptic neuron) is called as synapse. The synapses ensure the unidirectional transmission of nerve impulse conduction. The chemical transmission across the synapse was discovered by Henry Dale (1936). In the synapse between neurons chemicals signals called neurotransmitter was released by the presynaptic neuron which binds to the receptors of the post synaptic neuron. This will cause the sodium channel to open generating an action potential in that neuron.