What is the best description of neural transmission across a mammalian synaptic gap?

Question

I need a scientific description. Oh and is it like electrical currents?

Answer 1

Usually, the axon of the neuron transmitting the signal has been excited ( called the presynaptic neuron) and has an action potential, this causes a change in the electrical potential of the membrane that extends to the end of the axon where it ends at the synaptic gap which is an opening that physically separates this presynaptic neuron (sending the signal) from the postsynaptic neuron (receiving the signal). When the change in the potential reaches this area of the presynaptic neuron it causes the cell to release vessicles that are stored at the tip of the axon.

These vessicles are filled with neurotransmitter (a chemical specific to each type of neuron, could be serotonin, dopamine or glutamine). The vessicles traverse the synaptic gap and are deposited and burst open on the postsynaptic neuron (usually the dendrites or cell body). There it is taken up by the postsynaptic neuron where it can either contribute to exciting, inhibiting or causing more longterm changes to the postsynaptic neuron.

Answer 2

It's not electrical at the "gap". It is chemical. An electrical signal releases the chemical which jumps across the gap. That's why drugs can effect the working of the brain. If it was totally electrical, drugs (chemicals) wouldn't work.

Dopamine is a common chemical in the brain. When it jumps to a receptor, it make the person feel good. Drugs can imitate dopamine and produce a "feel good" euphoria that may or may not really be "good".

Answer 3

like a lightning bolt