Test 1 (Intro Psychopharm) Flashcards
Leak channels at rest
they are potassium channels, and at rest, there is no driving force on potassium even though the channel is open. If sodium comes in, then it gives potassium a reason to leave.
At rest- is the neuromembrane absolutely impermeable?
No
RP (receptor potential)
mechanically gated
What makes the peak of an action potential?
You’re at equilibrium potential for sodium, AND sodium channels shut.
Voltage Gated Sodium Channels
– closed -> open -> inactivatable (responsible for the absolute refractory period) -> closed -> open -> inactivatable - > etc…
are EPSPs are decrimental?
yes, that’s why we need action potentials
Are neurons biased toward an excitatory or inhibitory state?
Neurons are biased in the inhibitory direction – you don’t want cells firing because MAYBE cells are firing and MAYBE information wants to be passed on
How does Norepinephrine’s second messengers affect the cell?
the second messengers create a more excitable state, bring the membrane potential closer to threshold
About how many neurotransmitters work through ionotropic channels?
Only 6-8 neurotransmitters actually work through ionotropic channels
Peptide transmitters
usually synthesized in the cell body and carried by kinesin
When is NO produced?
When the cell is active. The more active the cell becomes the more NO it produces
Can glutamate be converted to GABA?
Glutamate can be converted to GABA via Glutamic Acid Carboxylase
When are neuropeptides often released?
Peptides are often only released when there is a big burst of calcium.
Where are autoreceptors found?
Somatodendridic regions or along synapses – autoreceptors are really sensitive
How do autoreceptors often work?
They open potassium channels and have potassium pushed out – it is pushed out as soon as the action potential arrives
