Does our nervous system’s design with its synaptic gaps that chemical messenger molecules cross in an imperceptibly brief instant surprise you? Would you have designed it yourself differently?

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Nervous System Design: Synaptic Gaps, Neurotransmitters and Electrical Signals
The brain works in a mysterious way. Millions of cells in the brain all communicate with each other in split seconds via chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) or electrical signals. It is surprising how when one steps on a hot surface, for example, the chemical and electrical signals are generated fast enough to stop a person from burning since one feels the heat even before stepping. The communication between neurons is not only used to send information but has also helped scientists control the human body by preventing the binding of neurotransmitters on their receptors in the brain (Pereda 4). This knowledge has been useful in creating pain medication and neurotoxins. The ability of one small organ to control the functions of an entire organism and cells larger than itself, is not only a work of art but also a mystery in itself. Even though scientists have made strides in understanding brain functioning, the potential of the brain in communication is yet to be fully understood. It proves the level of sophistication in the human brain.
Suppose I was the one to design the brain, I would make some minor adjustment to improve its function. Firstly, I would make the neurons much more selective to chemicals and electrical signals such that only chemicals and signals that have a positive impact on brain cells can penetrate. This would reduce or eliminate the negative effects of some lipid-soluble drugs such as alcohol or cannabinoids.

Also, I would maintain the mode of relaying information via receptors and neurotransmitters but give the surface cells of the brain more tensile strength. This is because, though the brain is a powerful organ, it is delicate and prone to physical injury. Increasing the toughness of neurons would ensure that it remains protected.
Works Cited
Pereda, Alberto E. “Electrical synapses and their functional interactions with chemical synapses.” Nature Reviews Neuroscience 15.4 (2014): 250.