Ribbon synapse

From WikiMD.com - Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Ribbon synapse is a type of synapse that is specialized for rapid and sustained neurotransmitter release. It is found in various parts of the body, particularly in the sensory systems such as the retina and the inner ear.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The ribbon synapse is named for its distinctive structure, which features a plate-like or ribbon-like presynaptic structure that is tethered to the active zone of the synapse. This "ribbon" is composed of a protein called RIBEYE. The ribbon is surrounded by a halo of vesicles, which are filled with neurotransmitters.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the ribbon synapse is to facilitate the rapid and sustained release of neurotransmitters. This is achieved through the unique structure of the ribbon, which allows a large number of vesicles to be primed and ready for release at any given time. This is particularly important in sensory systems, where rapid and continuous signal transmission is necessary.

In the retina, for example, ribbon synapses are found in the photoreceptor cells, where they play a crucial role in transmitting visual information to the brain. In the inner ear, they are found in the hair cells, where they are involved in transmitting auditory information.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Abnormalities in the structure or function of ribbon synapses can lead to various health problems. For example, mutations in the RIBEYE gene can cause congenital stationary night blindness, a condition characterized by difficulty seeing in low light. Similarly, damage to the ribbon synapses in the inner ear can lead to hearing loss.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Bone.png
This article is a stub related to anatomy. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP1 injections from $125

W8mdlogo.png
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program NYC and a clinic to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our W8MD's physician supervised medical weight loss centers in NYC provides expert medical guidance, and offers telemedicine options for convenience.

Why choose W8MD?

Book Your Appointment

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss, and Philadelphia medical weight loss Call (718)946-5500 for NY and 215 676 2334 for PA

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's NYC physician weight loss.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available. Call 718 946 5500.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD