30 NEUROTRANSMISSION

Question 1

Four basic cell types in the brain

Answer 1

Neurons
Astrocytes
Microglia
Endothelial cells and pericytes

Question 2

Describe some functions of astrocytes

Answer 2

Regulate synaptic transmission
Have NMDA receptors, take up and release Glutamate. 
Memory
May generate new neurons
Seal off damages areas following stroke
Activation of the immune system 
Regulation of blood flow

Question 3

Two main types of astrocytes

Answer 3

Protoplasmic and fibrous

Question 4

Role of protoplasmic astrocyte

Answer 4

Form domain organisation. Regulation of nerve impulses and blood flow among others

Question 5

Role of fibrous astrocyte

Answer 5

Scar tissue forming after brain injury

Question 6

Role of microglia

Answer 6

Macrophage activitiy. Surveillance, mediate immune response

Question 7

Endothelial cells and pericytes

Answer 7

Maintain blood brain barrier.

Question 8

List neurotransmitters in the brain

Answer 8

Monamines- seretonin, noradrenaline, dopamine
Amino acids and derivatives- GABA and glutamate, glycine
ACh
Neuroperptides

Question 9

What is a neuromodulator and give an example

Answer 9

Whereby a neuron uses a chemical to modulate the activity of surrounding neurons (as opposed to NT at the synapse). Adenosine (adenosine stops seizures)

Question 10

What are neurotropic factors

Answer 10

Released by non-neuronal cells (astrocytes/ microglia) to promote survival of neurons

Question 11

Fast acting and slow acting neurotransmittors

Answer 11

FA- glycine, GABA, glutamate (work via ion channels)

SA- dopamine, neuropeptides, GABA, Ach. (work vis G protein coupled receptors