Question

Briefly describe a neuromuscular junction.

Answer 1

Neuromuscular junction:

1. The neuromuscular junction is a highly specialized synapse formed between a motor neuron and a muscle fiber.
2. These junctions convert the electrical impulses generated by the motor neuron into electrical activity in the muscle fibers.
3. Once the action potential enters a motor neuron, calcium enters the presynaptic terminal to stimulate the release of the neurotransmitters.
4. The neurotransmitters then cross the synaptic cleft and bind to their specific receptors present on the surface of the muscle fiber.
5. This initiates the muscle action potential that results in the muscle contraction or relaxation.