Question

Which of the following is required for the secretion of neurotransmitters in response to an action potential?

a) Neurotransmitter receptors
b) Na⁺-K⁺ pumps
c) Voltage-gated K⁺ channels
d) Voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels
e) Glucose receptors

Answer 1

Voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels are required for the secretion of neurotransmitters when an action potential reaches the axon terminals, leading to the release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft.

Step-by-step explanation:

The component required for the secretion of neurotransmitters in response to an action potential is voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels. When an action potential reaches the axon terminals, it triggers the opening of voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels. The influx of Ca²⁺ ions into the neuron is essential for neurotransmitter release. These ions facilitate the merging of synaptic vesicles with the presynaptic membrane.

This process allows for the neurotransmitters to be released via exocytosis into the synaptic cleft, where they can bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron and propagate the signal. While other elements mentioned, such as Na⁺-K⁺ pumps and voltage-gated K⁺ channels, are also crucial in neural function, they are not directly involved in the release of neurotransmitters.