Each neuron may communicate with hundreds of thousands of other neurons. A neuron sending a signal (i.e., a presynaptic neuron) releases a chemical called a neurotransmitter, which binds to a receptor on the surface of the receiving (i.e., postsynaptic) neuron.
Signal transduction pathways are molecular mechanisms by which neurons convert extracellular signals into intracellular responses, enabling the nervous system to process and respond to a wide array of stimuli.
Signaltransduction refers to the processes by which intercellular signals such as neurotransmitters, neurotrophic factors, circulating hormones, and cytokines produce intracellular biochemical alterations that in turn modify neuronal functioning including the regulation of gene expression.
The majority of signaltransduction pathways involve the binding of signaling molecules, known as ligands, to receptors that trigger events inside the cell. The binding of a signaling molecule with a receptor causes a change in the conformation of the receptor, known as receptor activation.
Signaltransduction is the term of art neuroscientists use to describe conversion of energy from one form to another. At the chemical synapses we’ve seen so far, an electrical potential is transduced by voltage-gated calcium channels in the active zone of a synapse.
In recent years, the preponderance of research focused upon signaltransduction mechanisms relying on protein cascades, but more information is needed on the role and function of other molecular mechanisms.
Whether it’s telling a wound to heal, managing blood sugar, fighting an infection, or regulating emotions, signaltransduction pathways are the language of cellular coordination.
Understand how neuronssignal to produce adaptive movement. Explore different signaling mechanisms, including neurotransmitters and ion channels. Examine the underlying principles of membrane dynamics and neuronal excitability.
Communication between and within neurons is critical for all functions of the nervous system, from development to aging, through health and disease. The last decade has seen huge advances in our knowledge of the molecular, cellular and systematic signaling pathways within the nervous system.
