synaptic cleft
a gap into which neurotransmitters are released from the axon terminal. gap between adjacent neurons
The synaptic cleft is a small gap that exists between the axon of one neuron and the dendrite or cell body of another neuron. This tiny gap is where neurotransmitters are released by one neuron, which then bind to receptor molecules on the membrane of another neuron. This is an essential step in the process of passing information between neurons, which is how we are able to think, feel, learn, and remember.
The synaptic cleft is a critical part of the communication process between neurons. It is responsible for transmitting signals from one neuron to another, and without it, communication between neurons would be impossible. The dimensions of the synaptic cleft are about 20-40 nanometers (nm), which is approximately one millionth of a millimeter.
Several proteins can be found within the synaptic cleft, including ion channels, neurotransmitter transporters, release machinery, and receptors. These proteins play various roles in the communication between neurons, including the regulation of neurotransmitter release, the removal of extra neurotransmitters from the synaptic cleft, and the binding of neurotransmitters to receptors on the membrane of the receiving neuron.
Overall, the synaptic cleft is crucial for the proper functioning of the nervous system and is a key target for many drugs used to treat neurological disorders.
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