B. NEUROTRANSMITTERS AND PATHWAYS

Question 1

What is a neurotransmitter?

Answer 1

Neurotransmitters are substances which are used by neurons to communicate with one another or with target tissues.

Question 2

Where are neurotransmitters synthesized?

Answer 2

Neurotransmitters are synthesized and released from nerve endings into synaptic cleft.

Question 3

Classify neurotransmitters and their function.

Answer 3

1. Excitatory neurotransmitters - causes excitation receptors on post-synaptic membrane by depolarization (Na+ influx).
2. Inhibitory neurotransmitters - inhibition of receptors on post-synaptic membrane by K+ efflux or cl- influx

Question 4

List the Excitatory neurotransmitters.

Question 5

List the inhibitory neurotransmitters.
List the neuro-modulators.

Question 6

Dopamine
1. Classify.

2. General function.
3. Dopamine receptors.

Question 7

Descibe the 4 Dopamine apthways and the pathologies involved.

Question 8

Where is dopamine produced?

Question 9

Clinical Significance
What condition has high dopamine in the nigrostiatal pathway?

Answer 9

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)