Neurotransmission and Muscle Contraction Flashcard

Front

What is a sarcomere?

Back

The basic contractile unit of muscle contraction.

Front

What happens to the Z lines during a sarcomere contraction?

Back

They get closer together.

Front

What is the junction between a neuron and a muscle fiber called?

Back

Neuromuscular junction.

Front

What is the A band labeled as in muscle contraction?

Back

AC.

Front

What triggers the release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft?

Back

An action potential reaches the terminal.

Front

What are neurotransmitters?

Back

Chemical messengers that transmit signals across a synapse.

Front

What role does calcium play in muscle contraction?

Back

Calcium ions facilitate the interaction between actin and myosin.

Front

What is the function of the sarcoplasmic reticulum?

Back

It stores and releases calcium ions during muscle contraction.

Front

Define action potential.

Back

A rapid rise and fall in voltage or membrane potential across a cellular membrane.

Front

What is the role of myofibrils in muscle contraction?

Back

Myofibrils are the contractile threads found in striated muscle cells.