Neurons do not physically touch each other; instead, there's a small gap called a synapse between them.
While neurons communicate with each other and with other tissues in the body, this communication doesn't happen through direct physical contact. According to the provided reference, a gap, known as a synapse, always exists between cells. This synapse is the site where signals are transmitted from one neuron to another.
Types of Synapses
Synapses can be classified into two main types:
- Chemical Synapses: These synapses use neurotransmitters to transmit signals. When an electrical signal reaches the end of a neuron (the presynaptic terminal), it triggers the release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft. These neurotransmitters then bind to receptors on the next neuron (the postsynaptic terminal), generating a new electrical signal.
- Electrical Synapses: These synapses involve direct electrical coupling between neurons through gap junctions. This allows for very rapid and direct communication.
The Synaptic Cleft
The synaptic cleft is the space between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons. It is across this gap that neurotransmitters diffuse in chemical synapses, facilitating communication.
In summary, while neurons are connected functionally to communicate messages throughout the body, they never actually touch. The synapse, whether chemical or electrical, mediates this communication without requiring physical contact.
