Synaptic Transmission

Question 1

List the 5 steps involved in neurotransmission that are typical pharmacological targets.

Answer 1

1) NT synthesis
2) Vesicular storage
3) Synaptic release
4) Binding to receptor
5) Termination of transmission

Question 2

How can you get the most impact in the fastest way when targeting NT synthesis?

Answer 2

target the RLS of NT synthesis

Question 3

What is the utility of concentration NTs in vesicles?

Answer 3

1) To ensure quantal release of NT at synapse
2) To protect the NT from degradation (degradative enzymes exist inside pre-synaptic cell and will chew up NTs freely floating in cytosol)

Question 4

What is a unique feature of glutamate in terms of its reuptake potential?

Answer 4

It is NOT taken back up into the cell that released it (it is ONLY taken up into glial cells or the post-synaptic neuron).

Question 5

How is the action of the monoamines terminated?

Answer 5

via reuptake into pre-synaptic membrane

Question 6

How is the action of acetylcholine terminated?

Answer 6

via metabolism by AChE