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presynaptic

American  
[pree-si-nap-tik] / ˌpri sɪˈnæp tɪk /

adjective

Physiology.
  1. being or occurring on the transmitting end of a discharge across a synapse.


Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

Etymology

Origin of presynaptic

1905–10; pre- + synaptic ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

To examine how these networks function, he used the patch-clamp technique, which measures tiny electrical signals within specific parts of neurons, including presynaptic terminals and dendrites.

From Science Daily • May 3, 2026

Synaptic versicles -- sphere-like structures that store and release neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, are found in the presynaptic terminals of neurons.

From Science Daily • Dec. 3, 2024

Calcium ions entering the cell initiate a signaling cascade that causes small membrane-bound vesicles, called synaptic vesicles, containing neurotransmitter molecules to fuse with the presynaptic membrane.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Synaptic vesicles at the axon terminal of the presynaptic neuron release chemical messengers called neurotransmitters into the junction; neurotransmitters then bind to receptors embedded in the membrane of the postsynaptic neuron.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

At the presynaptic juncture, there is a distinct “presynaptic dense body” or ribbon.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2015

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