Lecture 9 Flashcards
What is the Synaptic Cleft?
A gap between the axon terminal of one neuron and the dendrite of the next, where synaptic transmission occurs
How does communication between neurons work?
Neurotransmitters are transported through the synaptic cleft (this is known as neurotransmission)
What are Neurotransmitters?
Chemical messengers which typically work by exciting or inhibiting neurons
What are the 5 stages of Neurotransmission?
Synthesis Storage Release Binding Deactivation
What is Synthesis in Neurotransmission?
Formation in the neuron
Where is Storage of neurotransmitters in Neurotransmission?
In synaptic vessels
Where do neurotransmitters get released?
Between the presynaptic neuron and the postsynaptic neuron
Where do Neurotransmitter bind to?
The receptor sites (large protein molecules)
What is Deactivation of neurons?
Via chemical breakdown or reuptake
What happens during reuptake of Neurotransmitters?
Chemicals are reabsorbed into the presynaptic neuron
What is another way that neurotransmitters are deactivated?
They undergo chemical breakdown in the synapse
How do excitation neurotransmitters work?
They stimulate the flow of positively charged ions into a neuron (excitation) which makes it easier to fire an action potential
How do inhibition neurotransmitters work?
They stimulate the flow of positively charged ions (K+) out of the cell or negatively charged ions (Cl-) into the cell. This decreases the membrane potential which creates a hyperpolarized state
What are Neuromodulators?
Neurotransmitters that have widespread effects
What are the Characteristics of Glutamate?
- Primary excitatory neurotransmitter.
* Important for learning, memory
What is GABA?
- Primary inhibitory neurotransmitter
* Important for motor control, anxiety
