Neurotransmitters tutorial Flashcards
Which amino acids are neurotransmitters?
L-Glutamate
Glycine
GABA
Which peptides act as neurotransmitters?
Neuropeptide Y Substance P adrenocorticotropin β-endorphin Opioids
Which neurotransmitters are monoamines?
Dopamine
Noradrenaline
What are the indoleamines?
Serotonin, melatonin
What are some examples of barbiturates?
Thiopentone (short), pentobarbitone (intermediate duration)
What is GABA-B receptor?
GABA-B is a metabotropic receptor, pertussis toxin sensitive Gi/o family. Regulates K channels.
Which pathway predominates in Parkinsons disease?
Indirect pathway (D2 receptors) - stopping movement direct pathway disrupted by cell death
What is a direct agonist of the D2 receptor?
bromocriptidine - treats PD and restless leg syndrome
How does reserpine work?
irreversibly blocks the vesicular monoamine transporter (VMAT). This normally transports free intracellular norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine in the presynaptic nerve terminal into presynaptic vesicles for subsequent release into the synaptic cleft (“exocytosis”).
What is a side effect of PD treatment?
nausea due to CTZ activation (outside BBB), postural hypotension due to LDOPA→ fainting (due to NA displacement).
What is an example of an atypical SZ treatment?
Clozapine is atypical neuroleptic - fewer EPS, positive and negative symptoms addressed, works on drug-resistant psychosis, less tardive dyskinesia the LT effect
Which atypical neuroleptic is particularly associated with weight gain?
olanzapine
What are some examples of tricyclic antidepressants?
amitriptyline (Elavil)
amoxapine.
clomipramine (Anafranil)
What is the mechanism of action of tricyclic antidepressants?
Inhibit the reuptake of the biogenic amines, mostly norepinephrine (NE), as well as serotonin (5HT)
