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Question 1

Glutamate

Answer 1

Excitatory aminoacid, most common brain neurotransmitter. Produces EPSP, regulates development and creation of new nerve pathways and hence is involved in learning and memory.

Question 2

GABA (Gamma­‐aminobutyric acid)

Answer 2

Inhibitory aminoacid, calming neurotransmitter. Produces IPSP, inhibits neuron firing in the CNS – high levels improve focus whereas low levels cause anxiety. Used to treat epilepsy and Huntington’s.

Question 3

ionotropic receptor

Answer 3

Forms an ion channel pore, fast but short-lived.

Question 4

metobotropic receptor

Answer 4

Neurotransmitter attachment activates G protein enzyme activation that produces second messenger those molecules travel through cytoplasm and open ion channels. Takes longer, lasts longer.

Question 5

ACh (Acetylcholine)

Answer 5

Learning neurotransmitter. Produces EPSP, involved in thought, learning and memory within the brain. In CNS associated with awakening, attention, anger, aggression, sexuality and thirst.

Question 6

Agonist

Answer 6

Drugs that facilitate the effects of a particular neurotransmitter by binding to postsynaptic receptors and activating them by opening an ion channel.

Question 7

Inverse Agonist

Answer 7

Reverses the effect of the neurotransmitter by blocking the process.

Question 8

Antagonist

Answer 8

Drugs that inhibit the effects of a particular neurotransmitter by binding to postsynaptic receptors without activating them and blocking the access of actual neurotransmitters.