Compare and contrast the communication mechanisms between the nervous and endocrine systems. In other words, how do neurons and neurotransmitters signal to their postsynaptic cells, compared to the way endocrine glands and hormones communicate with their target cells?
What will be an ideal response?
(Note to instructor: Students must have already completed the endocrine chapter(s) in order to answer this.) Neurotransmitters usually do not enter the cell, thus must combine with receptors on the membrane, using
mechanisms similar to the amino acid-derivative hormones. Similarities include opening channels in the postsynaptic cell membrane, leading to depolarization of the neuron. In endocrine target cells, the arrival of the stimulus begins a different sequence of events, such as triggering an enzyme cascade, and second messenger systems.
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