Lecture 6 - Drugs Flashcards
What is the effect of snake and spider venom on neurotransmitters?
They can disrupt nerve communication, causing paralysis or spasms at the neuromuscular junction (the connection point between a motor neuron and a muscle).
What is acetylcholine?
Acetylcholine is a key neurotransmitter in the brain and spinal cord that acts as a neuromodulator, fine-tuning signal transmission between neurons. It also plays a key role in controlling muscles by making them contract when it’s released by motor neurons.
What role does acetylcholine play in the nervous system?
It acts as a neuromodulator (adjusting how neurons communicate by influencing the strength or pattern of their signals) and is the main neurotransmitter released by motor neurons to trigger muscle movement.
Which type of neurons primarily use acetylcholine?
Motor neurons primarily use acetylcholine.
What neurotransmitter do sensory neurons typically use?
Sensory neurons usually use glutamate.
What are sensory neurons?
Sensory neurons are nerve cells that carry signals from sensory receptors (like those in the skin, eyes, and ears) to the central nervous system (CNS). They help the body perceive external stimuli.
What are motor neurons?
Motor neurons are nerve cells that transmit signals from the central nervous system (CNS) to muscles and glands, allowing for movement and responses in the body.
What are the functions of sensory and motor neurons, and how do they differ?
Sensory neurons function to relay information from sensory receptors to the CNS for processing, while motor neurons send signals from the CNS to effectors (muscles and glands) to produce movement or actions. The main difference is that sensory neurons carry information to the CNS, whereas motor neurons carry commands away from the CNS.
Are sensory neurons found in both the CNS and PNS?
Yes, sensory neurons are primarily part of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) but have their cell bodies located in the dorsal root ganglia, which is part of the central nervous system (CNS).
Are motor neurons found in both the CNS and PNS?
Yes, motor neurons have their cell bodies located in the CNS (in the spinal cord and brainstem) but extend their axons into the peripheral nervous system (PNS) to reach muscles and glands.
Why is the Black Widow Spider notable?
It is known for its lethal venom and sometimes eating its mate after mating.
What effect does Black Widow Spider venom have on acetylcholine?
It causes a massive release of acetylcholine, leading to muscle cramps, pain, and nausea.
How does botulinum toxin (botox) affect neurotransmitter release?
It inhibits the release of acetylcholine, resulting in muscle paralysis.
What is the medication neostigmine used for?
It blocks acetylcholinesterase (an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine), which prolongs the action of acetylcholine at synapses, leading to an increase of muscle contractions.
What condition is associated with the destruction of acetylcholine receptors?
Myasthenia Gravis is an autoimmune disease that attacks acetylcholine receptors, causing weakness.
