Synaptic transition (neurochemical)

• The axon terminals of a neurone are the small bulbs at the end of an axon that release neurotransmitters. These form the presynaptic neurone of the synapse.
• Synaptic transition involves impulses crossing the synapse between the axon terminal and the adjacent neurone.
• Electrical impulses (action potentials) pass down the axon to the terminal buttons (presynaptic terminal) which then trigger the release of neurotransmitters released from vesicles on the presynaptic neurone.
• Neurotransmitters travel across the synapse and combine with receptors on the postsynaptic neurone. neurotransmitters will be taken back up into the presynaptic neurone.
• Serotonin is the main neurotransmitter associated with OCD. Some OCD cases may be explained because of a reduction in the functioning of the serotonin system in the brain.
• Low levels of serotonin can lead to normal transmission of mood regulation and other mental processes not taking place.
• It’s thought that serotonin has a role in the mental process which stops the repetition of tasks.
• The effects of the anti depressant drug serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRI) has the effect of increasing levels of serotonin accords the synapse.
• Serotonin is deactivated in the synapse by reuptake into the presynaptic neurone meaning too much serotonin is being taken back up. Prozac blocks the reuptake of serotonin, increasing the activation of serotonin receptors.