Hyperpolarization of a rod leads to a decrease in its release of what neurotransmitter?

Test your knowledge on photoreceptors. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare for your test with confidence!

Multiple Choice

Hyperpolarization of a rod leads to a decrease in its release of what neurotransmitter?

Explanation:
Light turns rods off by hyperpolarizing them, which reduces their glutamate release. In the dark, rods are depolarized and continuously release glutamate onto bipolar cells. When light reduces their membrane potential, calcium entry at the synaptic terminal drops, vesicles of glutamate release decline, and the signal to downstream retinal neurons is modulated. Glutamate is the neurotransmitter used by photoreceptors, whereas GABA, dopamine, and acetylcholine are not the primary transmitters released by rods.

Light turns rods off by hyperpolarizing them, which reduces their glutamate release. In the dark, rods are depolarized and continuously release glutamate onto bipolar cells. When light reduces their membrane potential, calcium entry at the synaptic terminal drops, vesicles of glutamate release decline, and the signal to downstream retinal neurons is modulated. Glutamate is the neurotransmitter used by photoreceptors, whereas GABA, dopamine, and acetylcholine are not the primary transmitters released by rods.

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