One way for G proteins to send an internal chemical signal which can then affect the ion channel is via a second messenger system. Second messengers are signals that amplify the effect of the first messenger (typically a neurotransmitter) and prolong this effect within the postsynaptic cell. Using second messenger systems, neurons can turn synaptic signals into long-term changes. 

Second Messengers

A protein that is adjacent to certain receptors and activated when those receptors bind with transmitters. G proteins can then directly open an ion channel or send an internal chemical signal which can then affect the ion channel.

California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

A receptor that binds to a transmitter, but does not control whether the ion channel opens. When a transmitter binds, the receptor activates G proteins.

Metabotropic Receptor

Breedlove, S. & Watson, N. (2017). Behavioral neuroscience, eighth edition. Oxford University Press.

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