Ch 10 - Introduction to CNS Pharmacology - DONE

Question 1

Name the major CNS neurotransmitters:

Answer 1

• Acetylcholine
• Norepinephrine
• Dopamine
• Serotonin
• Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)
• Glycine
• Glutamate

Question 2

What types of receptors are most commonly found in the CNS?

Answer 2

• Ion-gated receptors (Na+, K+, Cl-, Ca2-)

- Ligand-gated receptors

Question 3

What ar the primary function of a neurotransmitter?

Answer 3

To bind a receptor and subsequently either excite or inhibit postsynaptic neuron

Question 4

What are EPSPs?

Answer 4

Excitatory postsynaptic potentials

- initiated when an excitatiry neurotransmitter activates Na+ or Ca2+ channels

Question 5

Give 5 examples of excitatory neurotransmitters:

Answer 5

1. Norepinephrine
2. Dopamine
3. Acetylcholine
4. Glutamate
5. Aspartate

Question 6

What are IPISs?

Answer 6

Inhibitory postsynaptic potential

• initiated when an inhibitory neurotransmitter opens Cl-, channels and the cell membrane becomes hyperpolarized.
• IPISs make it more difficult for the neuron to become activated

Question 7

Give 2 examples of inhibitory neurotransmitters:

Answer 7

1. Glycine

2. GABA

Question 8

In general, how do drugs affecting the CNS work?

Answer 8

Most drugs will affect the production, storage, release, reuptake, or metabolism of a neurotransmitter. Other agents may directly affect the postsynaptic receptors.

Question 9

What is the major difference between the autonomic nervous system and the CNS?

Answer 9

There are three major differences:

1. The number of neurotransmitters is greater in the CNS
2. The number of synapses is greater in the CNS
3. The CNS, unlike the autonomic nervous system, has a large array of inhibitory neurons that serve to modulate action.