Narrow escape problem in synaptic molecular communications

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The narrow escape problem (NEP) is a well-known problem with many applications in cellular biology. It is especially important to understand synaptic molecular communications. Active regions of synapses, also known as apposition zones, are connected to synaptic cleft through narrow slits, from which neurotransmitters can escape to or return from the cleft into the apposition zones. While neurotransmitters leakage into the cleft might be desired for the reuptake process, escaping neurotransmitters might trigger an undesired, i.e., false-positive or action potential in the post-synaptic terminal.