Behavioral Neuroscience Flashcards
The function of the prefrontal cortex?
Reflection, planning, emotional regulation, and theory of mind (ability to understand the perspective of others)
Structural vs Functional Neuroimaging techniques?
Structural: anatomical structure and location in the brain
Functional: level of activation when producing a behavior
Structural techniques?
CT/CAT scan- use x-ray to get a quick, cross-sectional, non-specific image of the brain
MRI- more specific detail of the brain region at each cross-section; uses a magnetic field and low exposure to ionizing radiation
Functional techniques?
EEG- measure activity based on brain waves; non-invasion, but low spatial resolution
MEG- record magnetic field produced during brain activity
fMRI-take series of magnetic resonance images at real time
PET- inject positron-emitting radionuclide tracers to give 3D image of brain and changes in tracer concentration in real time
Ganglion vs Nuclei?
Ganglion = neuronal cell bodies in PNS Nuclei = neuronal cell bodies in CNS
Basal nuclei
voluntary motor control (inhibit excessive movement), and procedural learning; works with cerebellum
Basal nuclei
voluntary motor control (inhibit excessive movement), and procedural learning; works with the cerebellum
Neurotransmitters
Dopamine- reward, pleasure (shortage = depression, lack of coordination)
Serotonin- mood, sleep (shortage = aggression, depression)
Melatonin- circadian rhythm, sleep initiation (shortage = insomnia)
GABA- main inhibitory nt in brain
Acetylcholine- excitatory in the neuromuscular junction, parasympathetic activity, (shortage = GI tract dysfunction, paralysis)
Epinephrine- fight or flight
Glutamate- main excitatory nt in brain, learning, memory and LTP, (shortage = fatigue)
Hormone
Cortisol = stress Oxytocin = sexual reproduction, trust Endorphin = pleasure, arousal leptin = regulate energy and inhibit hunger
Stress
Hypothalamus release CRH-> ACTH -> cortisol from adrenal gland
