An excitatory neurotransmitter is a type of neurotransmitter that stimulates or excites the neurons in the brain to transmit electrical signals. These neurotransmitters are responsible for facilitating communication between neurons by increasing the likelihood of an action potential being fired. When released into the synaptic cleft, excitatory neurotransmitters bind to specific receptors located on the postsynaptic membrane of the receiving neuron, leading to depolarization and triggering an action potential.

Key Points:

• Excitatory neurotransmitters facilitate communication between neurons.
• They increase the likelihood of an action potential being generated in the postsynaptic neuron.
• Excitatory neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane.
• This binding leads to depolarization and the initiation of an action potential.
• Examples of excitatory neurotransmitters include glutamate and acetylcholine.