Chemical Neurotransmission

Question 1

Binding Sites

Answer 1

Specialized regions on the postsynaptic receptor designed to specifically bind only one certain kind of neurotransmitter or other ligand.

Question 2

Ligand

Answer 2

Any substance that binds onto a receptor and fits into a specific binding site.

Question 3

Exogenous

Answer 3

From outside the body - have been used for ages to change the functioning of the brain and body.

Question 4

Endogenous

Answer 4

An internal substance

Question 5

Ionotropic Receptors

Answer 5

Ligand-gated ion channels we have been describing

Question 6

Metabotropic Receptors

Answer 6

Does not have ion channels; when a ligand binds it activates a second messenger system, opening nearby ion channels & producing other cellular effects.

Question 7

Criteria for Neurotransmitter Classification

Answer 7

• It is synthesized in presynaptic neurons and stored in axon terminals
• Released when action potentials reach axon terminals
• Recognized by receptors on the postsynaptic membrane
• Causes changes in the postsynaptic cell
• Blocking its release interferes with a cell’s ability to affect a postsynaptic cell.