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synaptic cleft

American  

noun

Physiology.
  1. the small gap, measured in nanometers, between an axon terminal and any of the cell membranes in the immediate vicinity.


Etymology

Origin of synaptic cleft

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

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The neurotransmitter diffuses across the synaptic cleft and binds to ligand-gated ion channels in the postsynaptic membrane, resulting in a localized depolarization or hyperpolarization of the postsynaptic neuron.

From Textbooks ● Jun. 9, 2022

A small space called the synaptic cleft separates the synaptic terminal from the motor end plate.

From Textbooks ● Jun. 9, 2022

The calcium entry causes synaptic vesicles to fuse with the membrane and release neurotransmitter molecules into the synaptic cleft.

From Textbooks ● Jun. 9, 2022

The enzyme acetylcholinesterase removes lingering acetylcholine from the synaptic cleft.

From Textbooks ● Jun. 9, 2022

The neurotransmitter diffuses across the synaptic cleft and binds to receptors in the post-synaptic membrane.

From Textbooks ● Apr. 25, 2013

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