Neurotransmitters

Question 1

Acetylcholine

Answer 1

Used in: autonomic nervous system and musculature system; learning and memory
Low levels are linked to Alzheimer’s

Question 2

Neurotransmitters can be…

Answer 2

excitatory or inhibitory

Question 3

Antagonists

Answer 3

Prevent release of other neurotransmitters

Question 4

Agonists

Answer 4

Increase production of other neurotransmitters

Question 5

Botulism

Answer 5

Bacteria blocks release of acetylcholine and paralyzes the muscles (active ingredient in botox)

Question 6

Curare

Answer 6

A poison that causes paralysis by blocking receptors of acetylcholine

Question 7

Black widow venom

Answer 7

An agonist that floods the nervous system with acetylcholine causing convulsions

Question 8

Dopamine

Answer 8

Used in: reward and pleasure centers i.e. sex drugs risk-taking eating
Elevated levels linked to schizophrenia
Low levels linked to Parkinson’s disease

Question 9

Norepinephrine / noradrenaline

Answer 9

Used in fight or flight response

Question 10

Endorphins

Answer 10

AKA endogenous morphine meaning we make it in or body – Native opiate
Used in physical activity and reducing sensation of pain

Question 11

Serotonin

Answer 11

Used in mood, sleep, hunger or sateity
Low levels linked to depression
SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are a depression medication that prevents your neurons from sucking serotonin back up
95% is produced in the gut

Question 12

GABA

Answer 12

Inhibitory, calming effect
Valium is a medication that binds to GABA receptors
Malfunctioning GABA systems linked to seizures

Question 13

Glutamate

Answer 13

Excitatory, used in learning, info processing and memory
Tasty