Ligand-gated ion channels play important roles in relaying information between neurons at synapses. An outline of the structure of a synapse is shown in this diagram. Which of the following statements most accurately describes ligand-gated ion channels found at synapses?

A) The neurotransmitter ligand binds and opens the channel, and then the ligand-gated ion channel directly regulates ion flow into the cell receiving the neurotransmitters.
B) The neurotransmitter ligand binds and opens the channel, and then the ligand-gated ion channel directly regulates ion flow into the cell releasing the neurotransmitters.
C) The neurotransmitter ligand binds and either opens or closes the channel, and then the ligand-gated ion channel directly regulates ion flow into the cell releasing the neurotransmitters.
D) The neurotransmitter ligand binds and either opens or closes the channel, and then the ligand-gated ion channel directly regulates ion flow into the cell receiving the neurotransmitters.