In a chemical synapse, receptors for neurotransmitters are found ona)p...
A synapse is a junction between 2 cell types. This junction provides functional continuity. The synapse have 2 types:
(i) Electrical synapse : In this, plasma membranes of cells come very close to each other but are not physically connected. This closeness is in range of 2-3 nm. In such regions cells contain barrel shaped channels made of connexin protein units. 6 units of connexin make one such channel. Connexin is an integral membrane protein. The extracellular domains of these proteins from apposing cells are tightly linked but not cells themselves. This channel allows continuous flow of molecule less than 1000 Da in size. Thus, it allows free flow of ions and provides for functional integration of cells. The flow of information by current is faster in this mode. These are also known as gap junction. E.g.: Stimulation of heart muscles for contraction in mammals, stimulation of smooth muscle cells is esophagus and intestine to generate peristaltic wave.
(ii) Chemical synapse : In this, a neuron interacts with another cell. This other cell is target cell of neuron’s actions and could be another neuron, muscle cell or gland cell. When stimulated, the action potential reaches the axon terminal membrane in neuron. This membrane is also called presynaptic membrane. After this, is a gap of 20-50 nm and called synaptic left. On other side is the membrane of target cell and is called post synaptic membrane. The action potential at presynaptic membrane causes release of chemicals called neurotransmitters. It is for this reason, they are called chemical synapse. The neurotransmitters travel across synaptic left and bind to their receptors in postsynaptic membrane.
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In a chemical synapse, receptors for neurotransmitters are found ona)p...
**Explanation:**
In a chemical synapse, the transmission of information from one neuron to another occurs through the release and binding of neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters are chemicals that are released from the presynaptic neuron and bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron. The receptors for neurotransmitters are found on the postsynaptic membranes.
**Chemical Synapse:**
- A chemical synapse is the most common type of synapse in the nervous system.
- It is a specialized junction between two neurons where the transmission of information occurs through the release and binding of neurotransmitters.
- The presynaptic neuron releases neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft, which is the space between the presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes.
- The neurotransmitters then bind to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane, triggering a response in the postsynaptic neuron.
**Receptors for Neurotransmitters:**
- Receptors are proteins that are embedded in the postsynaptic membrane.
- They have specific binding sites for neurotransmitters.
- When a neurotransmitter binds to its receptor, it causes a conformational change in the receptor protein, leading to the activation of ion channels or the initiation of signal transduction pathways.
- This ultimately leads to changes in the postsynaptic neuron, such as the generation of an action potential or the modulation of synaptic plasticity.
**Functions of Postsynaptic Membrane:**
- The postsynaptic membrane is responsible for receiving and integrating signals from the presynaptic neuron.
- It contains receptors for neurotransmitters, which allow for the transmission of signals across the synapse.
- The postsynaptic membrane also contains ion channels and other proteins that are involved in signal transduction and the generation of electrical responses in the postsynaptic neuron.
**Conclusion:**
In a chemical synapse, the receptors for neurotransmitters are found on the postsynaptic membranes. These receptors play a crucial role in the transmission of information from one neuron to another.