parts of a synapse
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ligand
a chemical that binds to another chemical
synapse
a point of communication at the gap between two neurons
receptors
a protein that resides on the membrane of the postsynaptic neuron
ligand-gated channel
ion channel that opens temporarily when a neurotransmitter binds to it
voltage gated channel
membrane channel whose permeability to sodium (for some other ion) depends on the voltage difference across the membrane
postsynaptic cell
neuron on the receiving end of a synapse
presynaptic cell
neuron on the releasing end of a synapse
vesicles
tiny nearly spherical packets where neurotransmitters are packaged
neurotransmitters
chemicals released by neurons that affects other neurons
synaptic cleft
the space between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons
