Brain Flashcards
What is the resting membrane potential of most neurons?
-70 mV
What creates the resting membrane potential?
Differential ion concentrations and selective permeability of the neuronal membrane
What are the intracellular and extracellular concentrations of K+ in neurons?
Intracellular: 140 mM, Extracellular: 4-5 mM
What are the intracellular and extracellular concentrations of Na+ in neurons?
Intracellular: 10-15 mM, Extracellular: 145 mM
What are the three phases of an action potential?
Depolarisation, repolarisation, and hyperpolarisation
What triggers the release of neurotransmitters at the synaptic terminal?
The influx of Ca2+ caused by an action potential depolarising the terminal.
What is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the CNS?
Glutamate
What is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the CNS?
GABA
What are the two types of neurotransmitter receptors?
Ligand-gated ion channels (ionotropic) and G-protein coupled receptors (metabotropic).
What are the characteristics of grade potentials?
They are local, can depolarise or hyperpolarise, decay rapidly, and travel short distances.
What is the function of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?
Provides buoyancy, cushioning, compensates for brain volume changes, and is used in diagnostics and drug delivery.
What is the primary role of the blood-brain barrier?
To protect the brain by restricting the passage of harmful substances.
What are Brodmann’s areas?
Functional areas of the cerebral cortex relates to specific tasks like motor or sensory control
What are the major parts of the basal ganglia involved in movement control?
Substantia nigra, subthalmic nucleus, globus pallidus, thalamus, caudate nucleus, and putamen.
Why is treating CNS disorders challenging?
Due to the complexity of neural networks, numerous neurotransmitters and receptors, and multiple drug target sites.
