neurotransmitter substance?

function: to created an action potential on the next neuron.

why destroyed: so that actional potential generation can be stopped when the organism doesn't need it any more.

Neurotransmitter Substance

A neurotansmitter is a chemical which allows electrical impulses to cross the gap (synapse) between one neurone and the next. The neurotransmitter is released into the syynaptic cleft from the presynaptic neurone. The neurotransmitter diffuses across the gap and attaches to receptors in the post synaptic membrane. If sufficient neurotransmitter attaches to the membrane (the threshold), the electrical impulse can pass across the synapse.

The neurotransmitter substance is removed after the impulse passes to prevent its continued action ie may cause a muscle to constantly twitch and to free the post synaptic receptors to allow the next nerve impulse to cross the gap.

Neurotransmitters can be removed by degradation by enzymes and by reabsorption by the presynaptic membrane.

Hope this helps!

Clare S gave the best answer. I have little to add other than to put it simply that :

function of neurotransmitter is to chemically transmit nerve impulse from one nerve cell to the next.

why destroyed - so that action of neurotransmitter isn't constant, and allows the target neuron to "rest". Most are NOT destroyed but are re-absorbed by the cell that released it. A few notable exceptions which ARE destroyed are peptides and acetylcholine

haha, that's so stupid... Please, just plug me back into my gooey little pink tank and continue to use my energy to power the AI... Ha ha, sorry if I'm not funny; I just watched the Matrix again, and I feel like I stepped through a time portal (that movies old, but still good). Anyways, that explanation was for anyone who's never seen the matrix. My answer is this: How in the hell could we possibly break through this control? They would not haphazardly implant these devices in people, everyone would get one at birth. But I think this was supposed to be a hypothetical question, wasn't it? Be more clear, I'm very literal.

It passes an arriving electrical impulse across a synapse (gap) from one nerve cell to the next. It is then deactivated so that no more impulses will be sent across until the arrival of the next one.

your smart as hell to ask such a question. i am a smart student but even i am at a loss. you are so brilliant and all, tutor me :)

kamran you good