SYNAPTIC TERMINAL Meaning and
Definition
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A synaptic terminal, also known as a terminal bouton or synaptic bouton, is a specialized structure at the end of an axon of a neuron. It constitutes the presynaptic component of a synapse, which is the specific junction where communication occurs between neurons.
The synaptic terminal plays a crucial role in transmitting signals between neurons in the nervous system. Within this small, bulbous structure, there are numerous tiny vesicles that contain neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers responsible for communicating information across the synapse. When an action potential reaches the synaptic terminal, it triggers the release of these neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft, a minuscule gap between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons.
The synaptic terminal is designed to ensure efficient transmission of signals. It possesses specialized proteins, called receptors, on its membrane that specifically bind to the neurotransmitters released by the presynaptic neuron. These receptors are located on the surface of the postsynaptic neuron, which receives the signals transmitted across the synapse.
The size and shape of synaptic terminals can vary, depending on the types of neurons involved and their specific functions. In certain cases, synaptic terminals can exhibit exciting complexity, forming intricate networks that allow for the integration and modulation of signals from various sources. Overall, synaptic terminals are essential components in the intricate communication network of the nervous system, facilitating the transmission of information and supporting various cognitive and physiological processes.
Common Misspellings for SYNAPTIC TERMINAL
- aynaptic terminal
- zynaptic terminal
- xynaptic terminal
- dynaptic terminal
- eynaptic terminal
- wynaptic terminal
- stnaptic terminal
- sgnaptic terminal
- shnaptic terminal
- sunaptic terminal
- s7naptic terminal
- s6naptic terminal
- sybaptic terminal
- symaptic terminal
- syjaptic terminal
- syhaptic terminal
- synzptic terminal
- synsptic terminal
- synwptic terminal
- synqptic terminal
Etymology of SYNAPTIC TERMINAL
The word "synaptic terminal" consists of two main components: "synaptic" and "terminal".
1. Synaptic: The term "synaptic" is derived from the Greek word "synapsis", meaning "connection" or "contact". It was first introduced by the English neurophysiologist Charles Sherrington in the late 19th century to describe the functional junction between two nerve cells, known as a synapse.
2. Terminal: The word "terminal" comes from the Latin term "terminālis", which means "end" or "boundary". In the context of neurology, a "terminal" refers to the end point or tip of a neuron's axon, where it forms connections (synapses) with neighboring neurons, transmitting information via chemical or electrical signals.
