When a nerve impulse arrives at a synapse, it causes the release of neurotransmitter from vesicles in the presynaptic knob. Describe how.

Membrane depolarisation arrives at the pre-synpase and causes Ca2+ voltage-gated channels to open. This allows Ca2+ ions to diffuse in the presynapse via the activated Ca2+ channels. Ca2+ influx in the presynapse induces vesicles carrying the neurotransmitter to fuse with the presynaptic membrane and release their content in the synaptic knob.

GM
Answered by Georgios M. Biology tutor

8062 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why are some DNA mutations sometimes not dangerous, and which type of mutations are these likely to be?


Can you explain the difference between Type 1 and type 2 diabetes?


Succinate is converted to fumarate by the enzyme dehydrogenase. This reaction can be inhibited by adding malonate. a) What are enzymes and what are their function? Use this information to explain how malonate acts as an inhibitor.


Glycogen and amylose are used for energy storage. Glycogen is found in animals. Amylose is found in plants. Describe how the structure of glycogen allows it to perform its function and explain the advantage to animals of using glycogen as an energy


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning