What happens when a ligand binds to ion-channel linked receptors?

When a ligand binds to the receptor, it triggers the activation of a small G-protein situated on the inside of the postsynaptic membrane. This activated G-protein can either directly open an ion channel or it can set off a series of internal processes that ultimately lead to the opening of ion channels (an indirect process). Ion channels, depending on their type, are designed to allow the passage of specific ions through a gated channel. The term "gated" signifies that these channels have a control mechanism, or "gate" which needs to be opened to permit the flow of ions. This gate is activated by the binding of a ligand to the receptor, facilitating the rapid transport of millions of ions across the membrane. This rapid process leads to instantaneous changes within the cell's interior environment, occurring in microseconds and through a single step.