The synaptic vesicles in the neuron contain
In a neuron, synaptic vesicles (or neurotransmitter vesicles) store various neurotransmitters like dopamine that are released at the synapse. The release is regulated by a voltage-dependent calcium channel. When an impulse arrives at the synaptic knob, the vesicles release dopamine in the synaptic cleft. Here, dopamine binds to the receptor located at the postsynaptic neuron and transmits a signal. Thus, a neuron is polarized and the impulse is transmitted. After transmission, dopamine detaches from the receptor, enters a channel called reuptake pump and returns to the synaptic knob. Drugs like cocaine, cross the blood-brain barrier and reach the synaptic cleft directly. Cocaine blocks the dopamine transporter (reuptake pump) that removes dopamine from the synapse. The result is a fairly rapid and persistent rise of dopamine in the synapse, leading to feelings of euphoria and well-being.