What is the process called when a neuron reabsorbs a neurotransmitter from the synapse?

The process of reabsorbing a neurotransmitter from the synapse is known as reuptake. This mechanism is crucial for regulating the levels of neurotransmitters that remain in the synaptic cleft after a nerve impulse has been transmitted. During reuptake, neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers released by neurons to communicate with each other, are taken back into the presynaptic neuron. This helps to terminate the signal between neurons and recycle the neurotransmitters for future use.

Other terms in the context of neurotransmission refer to different processes. Degradation involves the breakdown of neurotransmitters by enzymes in the synapse, which is another way to clear neurotransmitters but is not the same as reuptake. Release refers to the process of neurotransmitters being expelled from the presynaptic neuron into the synapse, while transmission refers to the communication process itself between neurons. Understanding reuptake is essential for grasping how neurotransmitter levels affect mood, behavior, and various psychological conditions.