Question

The process by which neurotransmitters are reabsorbed into the neuron after it fires is called:

A) Reuptake
B) Synthesis
C) Degradation
D) Secretion

Answer 1

Reuptake is the process where neurotransmitters are reabsorbed by the neuron after firing, clearing the synaptic cleft and making the neuron ready for the next signal.

Step-by-step explanation:

The process by which neurotransmitters are reabsorbed into the neuron after it fires is called reuptake.

This process allows the synaptic cleft to be cleared of the neurotransmitter, thereby resetting the postsynaptic membrane to be ready to receive another signal.

Reuptake is crucial as it provides a distinct 'on' and 'off' state for inter-neuronal communication and helps to regulate the production of neurotransmitters by signaling that no additional neurotransmitters need to be synthesized at that moment.