Neurotransmitters & Neuromodulators sac 1 Flashcards
What is a neurotransmitter?
A neurotransmitter is a chemical messenger that transmits signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.
True or False: Neurotransmitters can only excite neurons.
False: Neurotransmitters can either excite or inhibit neurons.
Fill in the blank: The primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain is ______.
GABA
What role do neuromodulators play?
Neuromodulators alter the strength of synaptic transmission and can affect the overall activity of neurons.
Which neurotransmitter is primarily associated with the ‘fight or flight’ response?
Norepinephrine
Multiple choice: Which of the following is NOT a neurotransmitter? A) Serotonin B) Dopamine C) Glutamate D) Endorphin E) Hemoglobin
E) Hemoglobin
What is the function of serotonin?
Serotonin regulates mood, appetite, and sleep.
True or False: Acetylcholine is involved in muscle contraction.
True
Fill in the blank: The neurotransmitter ______ is primarily involved in reward and pleasure pathways.
Dopamine
What is the effect of glutamate in the brain?
Glutamate acts as the main excitatory neurotransmitter, promoting the transmission of signals between neurons.
Multiple choice: Which neurotransmitter is known for its role in pain relief? A) GABA B) Serotonin C) Endorphin D) Dopamine
C) Endorphin
What is the role of dopamine in the brain?
Dopamine is involved in reward, motivation, and the regulation of movement.
True or False: Neurotransmitters are only found in the central nervous system.
False: Neurotransmitters are found in both the central and peripheral nervous systems.
Fill in the blank: The neurotransmitter ______ is associated with mood regulation and is often targeted in antidepressant medications.
Serotonin
What is the difference between neurotransmitters and neuromodulators?
Neurotransmitters directly transmit signals across synapses, while neuromodulators influence the activity of neurons and can modulate their responses.
Multiple choice: Which neurotransmitter is primarily linked to anxiety disorders? A) GABA B) Dopamine C) Norepinephrine D) Serotonin
A) GABA
What is the primary function of norepinephrine?
Norepinephrine is involved in arousal and alertness, as well as the stress response.
True or False: All neurotransmitters are derived from amino acids.
False: Some neurotransmitters, like acetylcholine, are derived from other precursors.
Fill in the blank: The neurotransmitter ______ is crucial for learning and memory.
Glutamate
What is an example of a neuropeptide?
Endorphins are an example of neuropeptides.
Multiple choice: Which neurotransmitter is involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle? A) Serotonin B) Acetylcholine C) Dopamine D) Histamine
A) Serotonin
What effect does GABA have on neurons?
GABA inhibits neuronal activity, reducing the likelihood of action potentials.
True or False: The effects of neurotransmitters are immediate and short-lived.
True
Fill in the blank: The neurotransmitter ______ is often referred to as the ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitter.
Dopamine
What is the role of endocannabinoids?
Endocannabinoids modulate neurotransmitter release and play a role in pain, appetite, and mood regulation.
Multiple choice: Which neurotransmitter is primarily involved in the body’s stress response? A) Norepinephrine B) Serotonin C) GABA D) Histamine
A) Norepinephrine
What is the primary function of acetylcholine in the nervous system?
Acetylcholine is involved in muscle activation and also plays a role in attention and arousal.
True or False: Neurotransmitters can only act on neurons.
False: Neurotransmitters can also act on other types of cells, such as muscle cells.
Fill in the blank: The neurotransmitter ______ is essential for the regulation of circadian rhythms.
Melatonin
What is the significance of the blood-brain barrier for neurotransmitters?
The blood-brain barrier regulates the passage of neurotransmitters and protects the brain from potentially harmful substances.
