How does an action potential travel across a cholergenic synapse?

An action potential arrives at synaptic knob. This causes voltage-gated Ca2+ ion channels to open, resulting in an influx of Ca2+ ions diffusing into the synaptic knob. This then causes vesicles containing acetylcholine (neurotransmitter) to fuse with the pre-synaptic membrane and release the acetylcholine. Acetylcholine diffuses across the synaptic cleft and binds to the receptor sites on the Na+ ion channels on the post synaptic membrane. This causes the Na+ channels to open and so Na+ diffuse into the postsynaptic neurone. The post synaptic neurone depolarises resulting in a new action potential.

VF
Answered by Victoria F. Biology tutor

2623 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do cell membranes form and what is their structure


How do the components of a plasma membrane affect the movement of substances into and out of a cell, and why is this regulation important?


Describe how bacteria are used to genetically modify crops. Describe two examples of GM crops. Describe the reasons why some are opposed to GM crops


Describe the events that take place to generate an action potential at a nerve synapse


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