AXON TERMINALS Meaning and
Definition
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Axon terminals, also known as synaptic boutons or terminal boutons, are specialized structures located at the very ends of neuronal axons. They play a crucial role in the transmission of electrochemical information within the nervous system. Axon terminals consist of bulb-like swellings that contain numerous vesicles filled with neurotransmitters, which are essential for synaptic communication.
The primary function of axon terminals is to transmit information from one neuron to another via synapses, which are specialized junctions that allow communication between neurons. When an electrical impulse, or action potential, travels down the axon, it reaches the axon terminals and triggers the release of neurotransmitters from the vesicles. These neurotransmitters then cross the synaptic cleft, the small gap between the axon terminal and the adjacent neuron, and bind to specific receptor molecules on the receiving neuron. This binding process leads to the generation of a new electrical signal in the receiving neuron, facilitating the transmission of information throughout the nervous system.
Axon terminals can connect with multiple target neurons, forming complex neural networks. The number and location of axon terminals can vary depending on the specific neuronal circuitry involved. They can be found within the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves, enabling communication between different regions of the nervous system.
In summary, axon terminals are the specialized structures located at the end of neuronal axons that facilitate the release of neurotransmitters, initiating synaptic communication and enabling the transmission of electrical signals between neurons.
Common Misspellings for AXON TERMINALS
- zxon terminals
- sxon terminals
- wxon terminals
- qxon terminals
- azon terminals
- acon terminals
- adon terminals
- ason terminals
- axin terminals
- axkn terminals
- axln terminals
- axpn terminals
- ax0n terminals
- ax9n terminals
- axob terminals
- axom terminals
- axoj terminals
- axoh terminals
- axon rerminals
- axon ferminals
Etymology of AXON TERMINALS
The word "axon" originates from the Greek word "axon", which means "axis" or "axis of a wheel". The term "axon" was first introduced by the German anatomist Wilhelm His in the late 19th century. The word "terminal" is derived from the Latin word "terminalis", meaning "end" or "boundary". Therefore, the term "axon terminals" refers to the endpoint or end region of the axon, where it makes connections with other neurons or target cells.
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