2 - Introduction to Synaptic Transmission Flashcards
What are four types of synapses
Axo-dendritic or Axo-somatic
Axo-axonic
Autoreceptors
Complex synapses
What is a marker for astrocytes
GFAP
What is the role of astrocytes
Provide structure to the brain Extend processes to the cell bodies of neurones Form part of the blood brain barrier Maintenance of neuronal homeostasis Secrete neurotrophic factors Regulate extracellular environment Glycogen storage DIfferentiation Regulate neuronal migration, axon and dendrite growth
What is multiple sclerosis
The result of destruction of the myelin sheath
What do oligodendeocytes and Schwann cells do
Produce and ensheath axons with myelin
What are microglia
Immune cells of the brain and spinal cord
What do microglia do
Defend against infection
Result to insult or injury by changing morphology and number
What can excessive activation of microglia contribute to
Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s Disease
What is the BBB formed by
Tight junctions between endothelial cells of the capillaries in cerebral vascular beds
Why is the BBB required
To isolate the extracellular fluid of the brain from the general circulation to allow very precise control of conditions and also prevents entry of potentially toxic substances
How do some drugs get into the BBB if they are not lipophilic
Their prodrug is lipophilic and gets cleaved after crossing the BBB
What are two ways to measure ion channels
Two electrode voltage clamp
Patch clamp
What are some Cys loop receptors that induce depolarisation
NAChR
5HT3R
What are some Cys loop receptors that induce hyperpolarisation
GABAAR
GlycineR
What are some Ionotropic receptors
NMDA
AMPA/kainate
