Synapse (labels) - histology illustration

The synapse is the place where a signal passes from the neuron to another cell. When the signal reaches the end of the axon it stimulates tiny sacs (17). These sacs release chemicals known as neurotransmitters (18) into the synapse (19). The neurotransmitters cross the synapse and attach to receptors (20) on the neighboring cell. These receptors can change the properties of the receiving cell.

Histology illustration courtesy of National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.