During synaptic transmission, neurotransmitters are primarily released from which part of the neuron?

During synaptic transmission, neurotransmitters are primarily released from the presynaptic neuron. This is the neuron that sends the signal and is located at the terminal end of the axon. When an action potential reaches the axon terminal, it triggers the opening of voltage-gated calcium channels. The influx of calcium ions then stimulates synaptic vesicles filled with neurotransmitters to fuse with the presynaptic membrane, leading to the release of these chemicals into the synaptic cleft. This release is crucial for transmitting signals to the postsynaptic neuron, allowing for communication between neurons.

The cell body contains the nucleus and organelles necessary for the neuron's overall function but does not involve neurotransmitter release in the context of synaptic transmission. Dendrites are responsible for receiving incoming signals from other neurons, not releasing neurotransmitters. The postsynaptic neuron receives the neurotransmitters but does not release them; instead, it contains receptors that bind to the neurotransmitters and propagate the signal further within the nervous system.