Synaptic transmission figures.

Synaptic Transmission: Figures and animation

These images illustrate the general process of synaptic transmission. The six steps in synaptic transmission are illustrated and described below. Review these figures then take a look at the synaptic transmission animation (48 k).

Step 1. The neurotransmitter is manufactured by the neuron and stored in vesicles at the axon terminal.

Step 2. When the action potential reaches the axon terminal, it causes the vesicles to release the neurotransmitter molecules into the synaptic cleft.

Step 3. The neurotransmitter diffuses across the cleft and binds to receptors on the post-synaptic cell.
Step 4. The activated receptors cause changes in the activity of the post-synaptic neuron.

Step 5. The neurotransmitter molecules are released from the receptors and diffuse back into the synaptic cleft.

Step 6. The Neurotransmitter is re-absorbed by the post synaptic neuron. This process is known as Reuptake.

Please note that this animation was created by Michael R. Markham who is not affiliated with UMass Boston.
Use this link to access the original and updated versions.

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	Step 1. The neurotransmitter is manufactured by the neuron and stored in vesicles at the axon terminal.
	Step 2. When the action potential reaches the axon terminal, it causes the vesicles to release the neurotransmitter molecules into the synaptic cleft.
	Step 3. The neurotransmitter diffuses across the cleft and binds to receptors on the post-synaptic cell. Step 4. The activated receptors cause changes in the activity of the post-synaptic neuron.
	Step 5. The neurotransmitter molecules are released from the receptors and diffuse back into the synaptic cleft.

	Step 6. The Neurotransmitter is re-absorbed by the post synaptic neuron. This process is known as Reuptake.
Please note that this animation was created by Michael R. Markham who is not affiliated with UMass Boston. Use this link to access the original and updated versions.