What role do neurotransmitters play in neuronal communication?

Neurotransmitters play a crucial role in neuronal communication by transmitting signals across the synapse, which is the gap between two neurons. When an action potential reaches the end of an axon, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters from vesicles into the synaptic cleft. These chemical messengers then bind to specific receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, leading to changes in the neuronal activity. This process is essential for various functions, including muscle contraction, hormone secretion, and the modulation of mood, sensation, and cognition.

The other functions listed do not accurately describe the role of neurotransmitters. For instance, storing electrical energy and conducting action potentials are associated with the properties of neurons themselves rather than neurotransmitters. Additionally, while complex thought processes do involve neural communication, they are not directly attributed to the actions of neurotransmitters alone. Instead, neurotransmitters facilitate the communication necessary for these larger processes to occur.