Knowra Neurotransmitter Neurotransmitter A chemical messenger released by a neuron that transmits signals to another cell across a synapse or other signaling junction. Neurotransmitters can excite, inhibit, or otherwise modulate their target cells.
Synaptic vesicle : A membrane-bound compartment that stores and releases neurotransmitters from a neuron. Neurotransmitters are commonly stored in these vesicles before release.
Neuron : An electrically excitable cell that receives, processes, and transmits information through electrical and chemical signals. Neurons are the cells that release most neurotransmitters.
Acetylcholine : A neurotransmitter involved in muscle activation, autonomic signaling, attention, and memory. It carries signals from motor neurons to skeletal muscle and also acts in the brain.
Neuropeptide : A short chain of amino acids released by neurons that acts as a signaling molecule. Neuropeptides are neuronal messengers but often differ in packaging, release, and duration of action.
Exocytosis : The process by which a cell releases material when an internal vesicle fuses with its membrane. An arriving electrical signal can trigger vesicle fusion and neurotransmitter release.
Synapse : A junction through which one cell communicates with another, chemically or electrically. Most neurotransmitter signaling occurs at chemical synapses.
Dopamine : A neurotransmitter involved in movement, motivation, learning, and reward-related signaling. Its varied pathways connect neurotransmission to movement and reinforcement learning.
Neurohormone : A hormone released by a neuron into the bloodstream to act at distant targets. Neurohormones are neuron-derived signals whose targets are not limited to nearby junctions.
Neurotransmitter receptor : A protein that binds a neurotransmitter and changes the activity of its target cell. Receptor binding converts chemical release into a response in the receiving cell.
Action potential : A rapid, regenerative change in a cell's membrane voltage that propagates along an excitable membrane. An action potential reaching a terminal often triggers neurotransmitter release.
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