NEURONAL SIGNALING Meaning and
Definition
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Neuronal signaling refers to the process of communication and transmission of information within the nervous system through the activation and transmission of signals by nerve cells, known as neurons. Neurons are the basic functional units of the nervous system, and they enable the transmission of electrical and chemical signals between different parts of the body.
The process of neuronal signaling begins when a stimulus is detected by specialized neurons, which can be found in various parts of the body including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. The stimulus can be of different types, such as light, sound, pressure, or chemical signals from other cells.
Once a stimulus is detected, the neuron generates an electrical signal, known as an action potential, which travels along the length of the neuron. This electrical signal is generated as a result of the movement of charged ions across the neuron's cell membrane.
As the action potential travels along the neuron, it triggers the release of chemical messengers, called neurotransmitters, from the neuron's terminal. These neurotransmitters are released into the synapse, which is the small gap between the terminal of one neuron and the dendrites or cell body of another neuron.
Upon reaching the postsynaptic neuron, the neurotransmitter molecules bind to specific receptors on its surface, triggering a cascade of biochemical events that generate a new electrical signal in the postsynaptic neuron. This signal then propagates along the postsynaptic neuron, continuing the transmission of information.
Overall, neuronal signaling plays a fundamental role in coordinating and regulating various activities in the body, including sensory perception, motor control, and cognitive functions. It allows for the integration and processing of information in the nervous system, enabling the body to respond to environmental stimuli and maintain homeostasis.
Common Misspellings for NEURONAL SIGNALING
- beuronal signaling
- meuronal signaling
- jeuronal signaling
- heuronal signaling
- nwuronal signaling
- nsuronal signaling
- nduronal signaling
- nruronal signaling
- n4uronal signaling
- n3uronal signaling
- neyronal signaling
- nehronal signaling
- nejronal signaling
- neironal signaling
- ne8ronal signaling
- ne7ronal signaling
- neueonal signaling
- neudonal signaling
- neufonal signaling
- neutonal signaling
Etymology of NEURONAL SIGNALING
The word "neuronal" is derived from the noun "neuron", which comes from the Greek word "neuron" meaning "nerve". It was first used in English in the late 19th century to refer to the basic unit of the nerve tissue.
The term "signaling" refers to the process of transmitting information or electrical impulses within and between neurons. This usage stems from the verb "to signal", which is derived from the Latin word "signum" meaning "sign". The term "signum" was used to refer to a mark, token, or indication.
Combining these two words, "neuronal signaling" refers to the transmission of electrical and chemical signals between neurons in the nervous system, allowing for communication and coordination within the body.
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