Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that enable communication between neurons by binding to specific receptors on postsynaptic cells. Ligand-gated ion channels (ionotropic receptors) produce rapid effects by directly opening ion channels and allowing ions to flow across the membrane.1,2,6,7 In contrast, G-protein-coupled receptors (metabotropic receptors) act indirectly through intracellular signalling pathways, producing slower but often longer-lasting effects.1,89 Together, these receptor systems regulate neuronal communication and activity throughout the nervous system.
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