NBSS: (neuroscience) introduction to neural networks

Question 1

what is an ESP and IPSP

Answer 1

EPSPs and IPSPs are sub threshold events which determine whether a neuron or muscle (end-plate potential) will reach a threshold to fire an action potential.

Question 2

what is an ESP

Answer 2

EPSPs sum to generated depolarisation (more likely to fire an action potential).

Question 3

what is an IPSP

Answer 3

IPSPs sum to generate hyperpolarisation (less likely to fire an action potential).

Question 4

What does the amplitude of EPSP’s depend on?

Answer 4

• Amplitude depends on:
  
  • amount of NT released.
  • number of receptors.
  • state of receptors

Question 5

• What does decay depend on?

Answer 5

• dissociation of ligand.
  
  • diffusion and uptake (e.g. glutamate).

Question 6

Compare presynaptic and postsynaptic inhibition.

Answer 6

• Presynaptic inhibition.
  
  • More specific control
  • Precise inhibition of specific synapses
• Postsynaptic inhibition
  
  • General inhibition.
  • All synapses inhibited equally.

Question 7

Describe surround/lateral inhibition.

Answer 7

Lateral inhibition is used to sharpen response to stimuli.