Definition of synapse

Suppliers Products Categories Handbook Dictionary Careers
Resources Photonics Spectra BioPhotonics Vision Spectra Virtual Events & Summits Educational Institutions Add/Update Your Listing Exhibitor Listing Portal Become an Exhibitor Buyers' Guide Print Edition Marketplace Help
Subscribe Advertise

Suppliers Products Categories Handbook Dictionary Careers

Resources

Photonics Spectra BioPhotonics Vision Spectra Virtual Events & Summits Educational Institutions Add/Update Your Listing Exhibitor Listing Portal Become an Exhibitor Buyers' Guide Print Edition Marketplace Help

Photonics Dictionary

synapse: A synapse is a specialized junction between two neurons (nerve cells) or between a neuron and a target cell (such as a muscle or gland cell). It is the fundamental functional unit of communication in the nervous system. At a synapse, the sending neuron (presynaptic neuron) releases neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft, a small gap between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons. These neurotransmitters then bind to receptors on the receiving neuron (postsynaptic neuron), generating an electrical or chemical signal that continues the transmission of information across the nervous system. Thus, synapses play a crucial role in transmitting signals between neurons and ultimately in the function and regulation of neural circuits and brain activity.

Ohara Corp. - Optical Glass, Polish substrates 10-23

Optimax Systems, Inc. - Ultrafast Coatings 2024 MR

Popular Articles

SPIE - Medical Imaging Advance 2025 - MR Web 12/24

Explore Our Content
News
Features
Latest Products
Webinars
White Papers
All Things Photonics Podcast
Photonics Spectra Now
Videos
Our Summits & Conferences
Industry Events
Bookstore

Join Our Community
Subscribe
Advertise
Become a member
Sign in
Contribute a Feature
Suggest a Webinar
Submit a Press Release
Mobile Apps

About Us
Our Company
Our Publications
Contact Us
Career Opportunities
Teddi C. Laurin Scholarship

Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy
California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)

Requesting information about:

* First Name:

* Last Name:

* Email Address:

* Company:

* Country:

Message:

When you click "Send Request", we will record and send your personal contact information to the supplier by email so they may respond directly. You also agree that Photonics Media may contact you with information related to this inquiry, and that you have read and accept our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions of Use.

* Required

We use cookies to improve user experience and analyze our website traffic as stated in our Privacy Policy. By using this website, you agree to the use of cookies unless you have disabled them.