Describe the process of synaptic transmission.

• A. Involves muscle contraction and relaxation
• B. Involves the release of hormones into the bloodstream
• C. Involves neurotransmitter release and receptor binding
• D. Involves the absorption of nutrients in the intestines

Answer: (C)

Synaptic transmission is the process by which neurons communicate with one another. This intricate process primarily involves the release of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse, the junction between two neurons.

When an action potential reaches the axon terminal of a neuron, it leads to the opening of voltage-gated calcium channels. The influx of calcium ions into the neuron triggers synaptic vesicles to fuse with the presynaptic membrane, resulting in the release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft. These neurotransmitters then diffuse across the gap and bind to specific receptors on the postsynaptic neuron. This binding can initiate various responses in the postsynaptic cell, such as the opening of ion channels, which can generate an action potential if the signal is strong enough.

This multistep process highlights the crucial role of neurotransmitter release and receptor binding in facilitating communication between neurons, making the correct choice a fundamental aspect of how synaptic transmission operates. The other options provided relate to different physiological processes and do not describe synaptic transmission accurately.