Neurons, which are special cells in our brains and bodies, communicate using electrical signals called action potentials.
These signals start when the neuron's membrane hits a specific point, around -55 mV. When this happens, it opens tiny channels in the neuron's membrane that allow sodium ions (Na+) to rush in. This sudden rush of sodium changes the electrical state of the neuron, a process known as depolarization.
When the action potential travels all the way to the end of the neuron, called the synaptic terminal, it makes neurotransmitters (often called NTs) get released. This release happens super quickly, in about half a millisecond!
These neurotransmitters then travel across a small gap called the synaptic cleft. They stick to special areas called receptors on the next neuron. This interaction can cause different reactions in that neuron. Sometimes it excites the neuron, making it more active, and other times it calms it down.
This whole process is really important because it helps control different functions in our brains, like how we feel, how we remember things, and how we move our bodies.
Neurons, which are special cells in our brains and bodies, communicate using electrical signals called action potentials.
These signals start when the neuron's membrane hits a specific point, around -55 mV. When this happens, it opens tiny channels in the neuron's membrane that allow sodium ions (Na+) to rush in. This sudden rush of sodium changes the electrical state of the neuron, a process known as depolarization.
When the action potential travels all the way to the end of the neuron, called the synaptic terminal, it makes neurotransmitters (often called NTs) get released. This release happens super quickly, in about half a millisecond!
These neurotransmitters then travel across a small gap called the synaptic cleft. They stick to special areas called receptors on the next neuron. This interaction can cause different reactions in that neuron. Sometimes it excites the neuron, making it more active, and other times it calms it down.
This whole process is really important because it helps control different functions in our brains, like how we feel, how we remember things, and how we move our bodies.