CVS Practice Test 2025 - Free CVS Practice Questions and Study Guide

Question: 1 / 400

Which electrolyte is essential for neurotransmission and acts as the most abundant second messenger in the body?

Sodium

Calcium

The essential role of calcium in neurotransmission is pivotal, as it acts as a key signal for the release of neurotransmitters at synapses. When an action potential reaches a neuron terminal, calcium channels open, allowing calcium ions to flow into the neuron. This influx triggers the synaptic vesicles containing neurotransmitters to fuse with the presynaptic membrane, facilitating the release of these chemical messengers into the synaptic cleft.

Additionally, calcium is renowned as the most abundant second messenger within the body. It participates in a variety of cellular processes by activating various signaling pathways that influence numerous physiological functions, including muscle contraction, hormone release, and modulation of gene expression. This multifaceted role underscores calcium's status as a critical ion in diverse biological processes beyond neurotransmission alone.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

Potassium

Magnesium

Next Question

Report this question

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy