Intro to NS Flashcards
Examples of circuitry problems
Schizophrenia, addiction, autism, depression
Examples of cell biology problems
Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis
Why have a nervous system?
Complex behaviour
What is a Paramecium
A single cell eukaryote that doesn’t have a NS. Uses cilia for complex swimming bheaviour and has neuron-like properties
Why do we need neurons?
Decrease diffusion time and increase specificity
What is the equation for diffusion in a cell?
T=xsquared/D
What is D?
Diffusion coefficient. Large value = moving around a lot. Depends on velocity of molecule and mean time between collisions. Inversely proportional to the viscosity of the medium.
What is Stokes-Einstein law?
Time taken for diffusion is proportional to the square of the distance traveled
How do we study axonal transport?
Pulse-chase radiolabelling. Add radiolabelled AAs into neuronal cell bodies. Incorporated into newly synthesised proteins. Proteins transported into axons and distal synapse. Movement figured out by analysing sequential axonal segments over time periods.
What type of process is the movement of material along the axon?
Active process using ATP. Microtubules use different motor proteins (kinesins and dyneins) to transport cargo
What are two major cytoskeletal elements?
Actin and microtubule
What does a Hydra have?
Individual neurons organised in a diffuse nerve net
What kind of NS do complex organisms have?
Groups of neurons organised into nerves. Usually have ganglia and brain and are symmetrical
Type of transmission along axon
Electrical
Type of transmission between synapses
Chemical
