What Mechanisms are Used to Clear Neurotransmitters from the Synaptic

Question

What mechanisms are used to clear neurotransmitters from the synaptic cleft? Select all that apply.
A) Degradation by enzymes
B) Reuptake by co-transporters
C) Transporters on glia
D) Diffusion
E) All of above

Accepted Answer

All of the choices are correct. ACh is degraded by the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. Transmitters like dopamine are taken back up into the presynaptic membrane by co-transporters that use the electrochemical gradient of an ion to provide the energy to transport the transmitter across the presynaptic membrane. Glutamate is taken up by glia. Many molecules diffuse away from the synapse which decreases their concentration and action