Definition: Neurotransmission

Neurotransmission

The mechanism behind the interaction of two neurons connected by a synapse.

Neurons release neurotransmitters from axon terminals.

The neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the dendrite of the other neuron.

The receptor then reacts to the neurotransmitter and through a mechanism that varies with each type of receptor, changes the membrane potential of the neuron.

Depending on the membrane potential, the neuron will repeat this process with the next neuron or not.

Related words

• Neurotransmitter
• Neurotransmission
• Neuron
• Synapse
• Receptor
• Membrane potential
• Axon terminal
• Spine
• Dendrite