All Things Neuro Flashcards
Add flashcards to this one as we go along
What process initiates the change from a negative to a positive resting potential inside a neuron?
Sodium flowing in through voltage-gated sodium ion channels initiates the change.
What restores the negative resting potential after an action potential?
The sodium-potassium pump works to stabilize the resting potential by moving ions.
Why is the resting potential of a neuron typically around -70mV?
There are more potassium ions inside and more sodium ions outside the neuron, creating a negative charge inside.
What are the main ways neurons communicate with each other?
Neurons communicate mainly through synapses, from the axon of one neuron to the dendrites of another.
How does synaptic transmission affect the postsynaptic neuron?
Neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, influencing its membrane potential.
What is the effect of inhibitory neurotransmitters on the postsynaptic neuron?
Inhibitory neurotransmitters cause hyperpolarization, making the postsynaptic neuron more negative.
What are the two main divisions of the nervous system?
The central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
Why is white matter white?
White matter is white due to the presence of axons covered in myelin sheath.
What are the functions of the ventral and dorsal parts of the spinal cord?
The ventral part conducts motor signals to the muscles, and the dorsal part relays sensory information to the brain.
What is CNS short for?
Central Nervous System
What is PNS short for?
Peripheral Nervous System
What is ANS short for?
Autonomic Nervous System
The neuron sending the signal is?
Presynaptic
The target cell receiving the signal is?
Postsynaptic
What are neurotransmitters?
Chemicals released by neurons at the synapse, which transmit signals to other neurons or cells.
What is the significance of the presynaptic terminal?
The part of the neuron that releases neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft in response to an electrical impulse.
