Neurons are the basic unit of the nervous system and transmit information through neurotransmitters. In which part of the neuron neurotransmitters are released

Options

A. Axon
B. Dendrites
C. Node of ranvier
D. Presynaptic terminal

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Neurons**: Neurons are the fundamental units of the nervous system responsible for transmitting information. They receive stimuli and communicate signals throughout the body.

2. **Structure of Neurons**: Neurons consist of three main parts:
- **Dendrites**: These are branched extensions that receive signals from other neurons.
- **Cell Body**: This part contains the nucleus and organelles, serving as the metabolic center of the neuron.
- **Axon**: This is a long, slender projection that conducts electrical impulses away from the cell body.

3. **Transmission of Information**: Neurons transmit information through electrical impulses that travel along the axon. When the impulse reaches the end of the axon, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters.

4. **Release of Neurotransmitters**: Neurotransmitters are released from the **pre-synaptic terminal** (also known as the synaptic knob). This is the terminal region of the axon where vesicles containing neurotransmitters fuse with the pre-synaptic membrane.

5. **Mechanism of Release**: Upon reaching the pre-synaptic terminal, the electrical signal causes synaptic vesicles to move towards the membrane, fuse with it, and release neurotransmitters into the **synaptic cleft**. This gap separates the pre-synaptic neuron from the post-synaptic neuron.

6. **Conclusion**: The neurotransmitters then bind to receptors on the post-synaptic membrane, facilitating the transmission of the signal to the next neuron.

**Final Answer**: Neurotransmitters are released from the **pre-synaptic terminal** of the neuron.

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