4.6 Neurotransmitters

Question 1

Acetylcholine (ACh)

Answer 1

• neuromuscular junction (synapse where NS commands muscles)
• blocking receptors for Ach at the muscles can result in paralysis
• key in Autonomic Nervous System
• involved in circuits related to learning and memory

Question 2

Norepinephrine

Answer 2

• released by Sympathetic Nervous System
• prepares us to react, thus the adrenaline
• arousal and vigilance

Question 3

Dopamine

Answer 3

• movement, planning, and reward
• dopamine participates in the brain’s reward and pleasure circuits by becoming active whenever we engage in behaviour promoting survival and successful reproduction

Addiction: cocaine stimulates increased activity in dopamine circuits

Question 4

Serotonin

Answer 4

• mood regulation, sleep, apetite, mood, aggression

Question 5

Glutamate

Answer 5

excitation of brain activity

Question 6

GABA

Answer 6

inhibition of brain activity

Question 7

Endorphins

Answer 7

pain management