Final answer:
The receptor for the neurotransmitter released at the NMJ is a ligand-gated channel. When acetylcholine binds to the receptor, the channel opens and allows select ions to pass through, resulting in muscle contraction.
Step-by-step explanation:
The receptor for the neurotransmitter released at the NMJ (neuromuscular junction) is a ligand-gated channel.
When the neurotransmitter acetylcholine binds to the receptor protein, the channel opens, allowing select ions such as cations of sodium, calcium, and potassium to pass through. This leads to depolarization and muscle contraction.