Question

In addition to diffusion, what are two other mechanisms that terminate neurotransmitter activity?

a. Reuptake and enzymatic degradation.
b. Reuptake and diffusion.
c. Diffusion and degradation.
d. Enzymatic degradation and ion exchange.

Answer 1

In addition to diffusion, reuptake and enzymatic degradation are two mechanisms that help terminate neurotransmitter activity in the synaptic cleft.

Step-by-step explanation:

In addition to diffusion, two other mechanisms that terminate neurotransmitter activity are reuptake by the presynaptic neuron and enzymatic degradation by enzymes in the synaptic cleft. Reuptake involves the neurotransmitter being pumped back into the neuron that released it, clearing the synapse for the next transmission. Enzymatic degradation occurs when enzymes in the synaptic gap break down neurotransmitters, which terminates the signal.

For example, acetylcholinesterase is an enzyme that degrades acetylcholine, and its inhibition leads to increased neurotransmission important in treatments for conditions like Alzheimer's disease.