Neurotransmission

Neurotransmission (latin: transmissio = passage, crossing; from transmitto = send, let through) is the transfer of signals between neurons, also called synaptic transmission. Neurotransmission is another word for the communication between neurons.

Neurons don't touch with each other, but have contact points that are called synapses. A neuron transports its information by way of a nerve impulse. A nerve impulse arriving at the synapse influences the neuron it is connected with, either in an inhibitory way or in an excitatory way. This next neuron is connected to many more neurons, and if the total of excitatory influences is more than the inhibitory influences, it will "fire", that is, it will create a new action potential at its axon hillock, in this way passing on the information to yet another next neuron.

Stages in neurotransmission at the synapse

1. Synthesis of the neurotransmitter
2. Storage of the neurotransmitter in the synapse
3. Release of the neurotransmitter into the synaptic cleft
4. Interaction with the receptor
5. Deactivation of the neurotransmitter