Asked by sandi eskew on May 01, 2024

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Verified

Which ion is necessary for the release of neurotransmitter from synaptic vesicles?

A) Cl
B) Na+
C) K+
D) Ca2+

Synaptic Vesicles

Membrane-bound sacs within presynaptic neurons that store neurotransmitters, which are released into the synaptic cleft to transmit signals to other neurons.

Neurotransmitter

Chemical substances released at the end of a nerve fiber by the arrival of a nerve impulse and, by diffusing across the synapse, causes the transfer of the impulse to another nerve fiber, a muscle fiber, or some other structure.

Ion

An atom or molecule with a net electric charge due to the loss or gain of one or more electrons, essential in a wide array of biological processes.

  • Understand the role and importance of various ions in synaptic transmission.
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Verified Answer

ZK
Zybrea KnightMay 07, 2024
Final Answer :
D
Explanation :
Calcium ions (Ca2+) are crucial for the release of neurotransmitters from synaptic vesicles into the synaptic cleft. When an action potential reaches the axon terminal, it triggers the opening of voltage-gated calcium channels, allowing Ca2+ to flow into the cell and initiate the process of neurotransmitter release.