Describe the events which normally occur between the arrival of an action potential at the synaptic knob and its transmission across a neuromuscular junction.

Voltage gated calcium channels open in response to the action potential reaching the presynaptic knob. Calcium ions diffuse into the celll down their concentration gradient. This results in synaptic vesicels moving towards the presynaptic membrane, where they fuse with the membrane, releasing their contents- the neurotransmitter Acetylcholine- into the synaptic cleft. The acetlycholine diffuses across the membrane and binds to acetylcholine receptors on the postsynaptic neuron. This triggers sodium ion channels to open on the postsynaptic neuron, allowing influx of sodium, down it's concentration gradient into the postsynaptic neuron which results in an action potential being generated in the postsynaptic neuron. 

Answered by Victoria S. Biology tutor

5726 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do I work out a genetic cross?


In ecology, what does the phrase 'carrying capacity' refer to and what factors may determine it?


How is an Action Potential produced in a neurone?


What is crossing over?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences