What are the correct sequence of chemical events at a synapse is?

Answer 1

1. The nueron synthasizes chemicals that serve as neurotransmitters. Smaller NT's in axon terminals, larger ones (Peptides) in cell body. Synthasizes chemicals it needs from substances provided by diet.

2. The nueron transports the peptide neurotransmiters to axon terminals.

3. Action potentials travel down the axon. At the presynaptic terminal, an action potential enables calcium to enter cell. Calcium relases neurotransmiters from the terminals into synaptic cleft, which is the space between the presynaptic and post synaptic nuerons.

4. The relased molecules diffuse across the cleft attach to receptors and alter activity of post synaptic neuron.

5. The neurotranmitter molecules separate from their receptors. Depending on the neurotransmitter, it may be converted into inactive chemicals.

6. The NT molecules may be taken back into the presynaptic neuron for recycling or may diffuse away. In some cases, empty vesicles are returned to celll body.