In an active synapse composed of a presynaptic and postsynaptic cell, which part of the presynaptic cell is the last to participate in the action potential? a) cell body b) axon terminals c) axon d) dendrites e) axon hillock

b) Axon terminals

Explanation:

Dendrite is the receiving part of the presynaptic neuron, while axon is the transmitting part of the neuron. So, after initiation, action potentials travel down axons to the terminals.

Action potential travels through the membrane of the presynaptic cell causing the voltage-gated channels permeable to calcium ions to open. Ca2+ flow through the presynaptic membrane and increase the Ca concentration in the cell which will activate proteins attached to vesicles that contain a neurotransmitter (e.g. acetylcholine). Vesicles fuse with the membrane of the presynaptic cell, thereby release their contents into the synaptic cleft-space between the membranes of the pre- and postsynaptic cells. Neurotransmitter ACh binds to its receptors on the postsynaptic membrane and its binding causes depolarization of the target cell (muscle cell). Depolarization occurs because sodium enters the cell as a result of neurotransmitter receptor binding.