PRESYNAPTIC NEURON Meaning and
Definition
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A presynaptic neuron is a type of nerve cell that transmits signals to a postsynaptic neuron, which is located in close proximity. This neuron is responsible for releasing neurotransmitters across a synapse, which is the junction connecting the presynaptic and postsynaptic neuron. It is an essential component of the nervous system, playing a crucial role in facilitating communication between neurons.
The presynaptic neuron contains specialized structures known as synaptic vesicles, which store the neurotransmitters. When an electrical impulse, called an action potential, reaches the presynaptic neuron, it triggers the release of these neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft. These neurotransmitters then bind to specific receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, eliciting a response and transmitting the signal across the synapse.
Presynaptic neurons can be found throughout the entire central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord, as well as in the peripheral nervous system. They are involved in various functions such as motor control, sensory processing, and memory formation.
Overall, the presynaptic neuron is a key player in the intricate process of neuronal communication, allowing for the transmission of information across synapses and enabling complex functions within the nervous system.
Etymology of PRESYNAPTIC NEURON
The word "presynaptic" is derived from two Latin roots: "pre", meaning "before", and "synaptic", which relates to the synapse, the junction between two neurons. The term "neuron" itself comes from the Greek word "neuron", meaning "nerve" or "sinew". Therefore, the etymology of "presynaptic neuron" suggests a neuron that comes before the synapse and carries information towards the synapse for transmission to another neuron.
