A 'tripartite synapse' refers to the functional interaction between a presynaptic neuron, a postsynaptic neuron, and which glial cell?
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Correct answer: Astrocyte
Astrocytes extend processes that wrap around synapses. They help regulate the synaptic environment by taking up excess neurotransmitters (like glutamate) and releasing their own 'gliotransmitters'.
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More Synapses questions
- In a chemical synapse, which structure is specifically responsible for the storage of neurotransmitters?
- What is the typical width of the synaptic cleft in a standard chemical synapse?
- Which ion influx is directly responsible for triggering the exocytosis of synaptic vesicles?
- An 'axodendritic' synapse occurs between which two neuronal components?
- Histologically, the 'postsynaptic density' (PSD) is best described as:
- Which type of synapse allows for the bidirectional flow of ions and incredibly rapid signal transmission?