First some
definitions:
1.
A neuron
is an electrically excitable cell that processes and transmits information by
electrochemical signaling. On one end of the neuron are the dendrites
(receiving end) and the other end is the transmitting end (axon terminal).
2.
Synapse: One neuron connects to another neuron
when the dendrite of one is connected to the axon terminal of the other. This
connection is called a synapse.
3.
Dendrites are the branched projections of a
neuron that act to conduct the electrochemical stimulation received from other neural
cells to the main part of the neuron from which the dendrites project.
Dendrites form the main receiving part of neurons. Dendrites collect and funnel
these signals to the soma and axon.
4.
A neurotransmitter
is a chemical that is released from a neuron.
5.
Synaptic
Cleft: The tiny space
between two nerve cells across which the neurotransmitter diffuses
6.
Receptor: Neurotransmitters cross the synapse
where they may be accepted by the next neuron at a specialized site on a
dendrite called a receptor.
Here are the
detailed instructions for the “lost” neurotransmitter:
1.
You
are currently on the receptor of a dendrite
2.
To
get to the next neuron in the chain, you must travel the length of the neuron
you are current on
·
Travel
across the dendrite
·
Travel
across the soma
·
Travel
down the entire length of the axon
·
Travel
across the axon terminal
3.
At
the synaptic cleft, bind with receptor sites on the neighboring neuron’s
dendrite