Synaptic Transmission and Neural Integration - Chemical Synapses

5 important questions on Synaptic Transmission and Neural Integration - Chemical Synapses

what is the difference in slow and fast responses to neurotransmitters

Fast response: Neurotransmitter binds to a channel-linked/ionotropic receptor. This opens ion channels changing electrical properties in the postsynaptic neuron. This is called a postsynaptic potential (PSP). It occurs rapidly and terminates rapidly

 

Slow response: Neurotransmitter binds to a G protein linked receptor. It is slower, but has the same ultimate effect: opening or closing of ion channels. G proteins can act directly of via second messengers.

What is an excitatory synapse?

A synapse that brings the membrane potential of the postsynaptic neuron closer to the threshold for generating an action potential (depolarize post synaptic neuron).

what are the properties of an exitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP)?

- They are either fast of slow responses

- they are graded potentials

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What is an inhibitory synapse?

A synapse that takes the membrane potential of the postsynaptic neuron away from the action postential theshold (by hyperpolarization). The binding of a neurotransmitter to its receptors open channels for either potassium (K) or chloride (Cl) ions.

What happens when chloride channels are opened in the postsynaptic neuron?

- If there are chloride transporters that actively transport Cl out of the cell, opening Cl channels will cause Cl to move in down its concentration gradient, hyperpolarizing the neuron.

- If Cl is in equilibrium opening of Cl channels is still considered inhibitory even though there is no net movement of Cl. If another synapse is exitatory and depolarises the neuron, an imbalance makes Cl enter the cell, reducing or canceling the effect of the EPSP. Thus it is inhibitory.

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