The CNS and neurotransmitters Flashcards
What is the CNS?
- Made up of the brain and spinal cord
- Responsible for processing and transmitting information throughout the body
What are the main functions of the CNS?
The CNS controls sensory information, motor commands, and higher functions such as thinking, memory, and decision-making.
What is the structure of a neuron?
- Dendrites: Receive electrical signals from other neurons.
- Cell body: Contains the nucleus and processes information.
- Axon: Transmits electrical signals away from the cell body to other neurons or muscles.
What is the role of a neuron?
- Neurons transmit electrical impulses throughout the body, allowing communication between the brain, spinal cord, and muscles/organs.
Three main types of neuron are
- Motor - transmits messages from CNS to muscles
- Inter (relay) - connect neurons to other neurons
- Sensory - carry info from senses to CNS
What is synaptic transmission?
the process by which neurotransmitters are released from the axon terminal of one neuron and cross the synapse to bind to receptors on the dendrites of another neuron, transmitting a signal.
What happens during synaptic transmission?
- An action potential travels down the axon to the axon terminal.
- Neurotransmitters are released into the synapse.
- These neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the next neuron’s dendrites.
- The signal is either excited or inhibited, depending on the neurotransmitter and receptor type.
What is the role of dopamine?
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, motivation, and reward. It plays a key role in pleasure and reward systems and is involved in conditions like Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenia.
What is the role of serotonin?
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, sleep, and memory. It is linked to feelings of well-being and is often associated with depression when levels are low.
