Final answer:
The order of structures encountered in a post-synaptic cell after a neurotransmitter has been released is ligand-gated channels, dendrites, soma, axon hillock, axon, voltage-gated channels, and axon terminal.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of neuronal communication, the structures within a post-synaptic cell should be encountered in the following order: ligand-gated channels (typically found on dendrites or the cell body), dendrites, soma (cell body), axon hillock, axon, voltage-gated channels (located along the axon), and finally the axon terminal.
When a neurotransmitter is released from the axon terminal of a pre-synaptic neuron, it crosses the synaptic cleft and binds to the ligand-gated channels on the post-synaptic neuron. This interaction often results in a change in the electric potential of the post-synaptic cell. The signal then travels from the dendrites to the soma, where multiple signals can be integrated. The axon hillock then plays a critical role in determining whether an action potential is initiated. If the action potential is initiated, it travels down the axon, propelled by the successive opening of voltage-gated channels, until reaching the axon terminal, which may then release neurotransmitters to continue the communication process via exocytosis.
Importantly, this process involves aspects like exocytosis, which refers to the release of neurotransmitters from the axon terminal, and endocytosis, which is the uptake of materials into the cell, which can include the retrieval of neurotransmitter molecules or vesicles after their release.