Unit 2 Basic Biology Flashcards
Cells found throughout the nervous system that provide structural support for neurons.
Glia
Transmits electrical & chemical signals in the body.
Neurons
Cell body of a neuron.
Soma
Branch-like structures to RECEIVE info.
Dendrites
Tube-like structures to SEND info.
Axon
Surrounds & protects axons; Speeds up, transmission of signals, and made up of glia cells.
Myelin Sheath
Sac-like structures that contain neurotransmitters.
Synaptic Vesicles
Where the axon meets the dendrite; where info is passed.
Synapse
The neuron’s stable, negative charge when the cell is inactive.
Resting Potential
Time between action potentials.
Absolute Refractory Period
A very brief shift in a neuron’s electrical charge that travels along the axon.
Action Potential
Individual neuron either fires all of its voltage or none of its voltage.
All Or None Law
Begins immediately after the binding of the neurotransmitter molecule to the receptor site.
Postsynaptic Potential
The location on the dendrite wall where the neurotransmitter binds (chemically joins).
Receptor Site
Increases the likelihood the next neuron will fire an action potential.
Excitatory Neurotransmitter
Decreases the likelihood the next neuron will fire an action potential.
Inhibitory Neurotransmitter
Chemical messengers that transmit signals from nerve cells to target cells.
Neurotransmitters
- Synthesis & Storage
- Release
- Binding
- Inactivation & Removal
- Reuptake
5 Step Process of Neurotransmitters
A chemical that MIMICS the action of a neurotransmitter. (Nicotine or Opioid medication)
Agonist
A chemical that OPPOSES the action of a neurotransmitter. (Anti-depression medication)
Antagonist
Brain & Spinal Cord
Central Nervous System
System is comprised of all nerves outside the central nervous system.
Peripheral Nervous System
Part of the PNS that controls INVOLUNTARY functions.
Automatic Nervous System
Mobilizes the bodies resources for emergencies.
Sympathetic Nervous System
Branch of the automatic nervous system that conserves bodily resources.
Parasympathic Nervous System
The division of the peripheral nervous system that connects to voluntary muscles & sensory receptors.
Somatic Nervous System
Nerves in the SNS that move impulses TOWARD the central nervous system.
Afferent Nerves
Nerves in the SNS that move impulses AWAY from the central nervous system.
Efferent Nerves
Includes the cerebellum, the medulla and the pons. (The most primitive region of the brain).
Hindbrain Region
Regulating unconscious functions such as breathing
Medulla
Regulates arousal levels; Latin for bridge.
Pons
Large and deeply folded structure regulates physical balance.
Cerebellum
Segment of the brainstem that lies between the hindbrain and forebrain. Regulates sleep & awakeness.
Midbrain Region
Regulates sleep & wakefulness. Runs through both the hind and midbrain regions.
Reticular Formation
Largest and most complex REGION of the brain, encompassing a variety of structures (thalamus, hypothalamus, limbic system and cerebrum)
Forebrain Region
Brain’s relay center; all info from your body senses EXCEPT smell.
Thalamus
Basic biological needs
Hypothalamus
Loosely connected structured networks (emotions, instincts, memories).
Limbic System
Largest most complex PART of your brain. (Thinking & learing)
Cerebrum
Area of the brain- Speech production
Broca’s Area
Area of the brain- Language comprehension
Wernicke’s Area
Brain structure connects the two cerebral hemispheres.
Corpus Callosum
Personality, decision-making, movement. Which Lobe?
Frontal Lobe
“Middle Brain” Sensory: pressure, touch, pain, identifying objects. Which Lobe?
Parietal Lobe
Visual Information- shapes & colors. Which Lobe?
Occipital Lobe
Processing, auditory information, memory, & speech. Which Lobe?
Temporal Lobe
