ELECTRICAL SYNAPSE Meaning and
Definition
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An electrical synapse, also known as a gap junction, is a specialized junction between two adjacent cells, typically neurons, muscle cells, or other electrically excitable cells, where electrical signals are rapidly transmitted between the cells. This type of synapse allows for direct communication between cells, with electrical current flowing from one cell to another through small channels called gap junctions.
In an electrical synapse, the gap junctions consist of protein channels known as connexons that span the cell membranes of the two connected cells. Each connexon is formed by six connexin subunits. These channels create a direct pathway for ions, such as sodium, potassium, and calcium, to flow from one cell to the other.
Unlike chemical synapses, where the transmission of signals is mediated by neurotransmitters, electrical synapses allow for the near-instantaneous and bidirectional flow of electrical current between cells. This electrical coupling enables synchronized and rapid communication between cells, facilitating coordinated activity within neural circuits or muscle contractions.
Electrical synapses are found throughout the nervous system and play a crucial role in various physiological processes, including the transmission of action potentials, neuronal synchronization, and the coordination of cardiac and smooth muscle contractions. They are particularly important in systems requiring fast and reliable signal transmission, such as escape responses, reflexes, and the coordination of physiological functions.
Common Misspellings for ELECTRICAL SYNAPSE
- wlectrical synapse
- slectrical synapse
- dlectrical synapse
- rlectrical synapse
- 4lectrical synapse
- 3lectrical synapse
- ekectrical synapse
- epectrical synapse
- eoectrical synapse
- elwctrical synapse
- elsctrical synapse
- eldctrical synapse
- elrctrical synapse
- el4ctrical synapse
- el3ctrical synapse
- elextrical synapse
- elevtrical synapse
- eleftrical synapse
- eledtrical synapse
- elecrrical synapse
Etymology of ELECTRICAL SYNAPSE
The word "electrical" in "electrical synapse" comes from the Latin word "electricus", which means "relating to amber or amber-like properties". The term was coined in the late 18th century to describe phenomena involving electricity.
The word "synapse" has a Greek origin. It comes from the combining form "syn-" meaning "together" or "with" and the word "haptein", meaning "to fasten". When combined, "synapse" refers to the junction between two nerve cells where the electrical or chemical signals are transmitted. The term was introduced by the British neurophysiologist Sir Charles Sherrington in 1897.
Therefore, the term "electrical synapse" combines the Latin word for electricity and the Greek word for junction or connection, describing a type of neuronal connection where electrical signals are transmitted directly between cells.
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