Neurotransmitters
What are neurotransmitters and why are they significant?
Rough Answer Outline: They're chemical messengers within the brain that were manufactured by neurons. They're significant because the chemicals released by them will affect your ability to perceive, move, act, and feel.
Define what the Limbic System is.
The Limbic System is a system made up of several forebrain structures. These structures play roles in emotion, memory, learning, and motivation. They form a border around the brainstem.
What is a neuron?
A highly specialized cell to transmit and receive information from one part of your body to another.
Define what the Peripheral nervous system is.
It is the division of the nervous system that includes all the nerves outside of the central nervous system.
What does the primary motor cortex control and where is it located?
It controls voluntary movement and is located in the frontal lobe.
Define the primary roles of the neurotransmitter Dopamine.
Dopamine's primary roles include movement, thought process, and rewarding sensations . It is known as the "reward" neurotransmitter because it signals anticipation, pleasure, and satisfaction.
Explain what the Hippocampus is.
This is a (large) forebrain structure embedded in the temporal lobe of each cerebral hemisphere. It's involved in the formation of new memories. Derives from the Latin word meaning "sea horse".
What is an Axon? What does it do?
An axon is a single elongated tube that extends from the cell body for most neurons. It is a part of the neuron that carries information from the neuron to the other cells in the body which includes glands, muscles, and other neurons.
Define the automatic nervous system.
A subdivision of the peripheral nervous system that controls/regulates involuntary functions, such as heartbeat, blood pressure, breathing, and digestion.
What does the somatosensory cortex do and where is it located?
It receives information about body sensations. Located in the parietal lobe.
Define the primary roles of the neurotransmitter Serotonin.
Serotonin primarily regulates mood, emotional states, sensory perceptions, and sleep. It can make you feel tranquil and content.
Explain what the Thalamus is.
It is a rounded forebrain structure located within each cerebral hemisphere. It processes and integrates sensory information (except smell), and relays it to the cerebral cortex. Derives from a Greek word meaning "inner chamber."
Name a type of Glial cell.
- Oligodendrocytes
- Astrocytes
- Microglia
What is the sympathetic nervous system?
A branch of the autonomic nervous system that is the body's emergency system. It rapidly activates the bodies systems once a threat is identified (fight or flight).
What does the primary auditory cortex process and where is it located?
It processes auditory information and is located within the temporal lobe.
Define the primary roles of Glutamate and GABA
They're closely related-- GABA communicates inhibitory messages which works to calm the brain, helps control anxiety and stress. Glutamate, on the other hand, sends excitatory messages, and if you have too many you can die.
Explain what the Hypothalamus is.
The hypothalamus is located below the thalamus and is roughly the size of a peanut. It has 40 neural paths and links the brain and endocrine system. It regulates sleep, thirst, and hunger (upon other things).
What word meaning does dendrite derive from?
The Greek word meaning "tree."
What is the parasympathetic nervous system?
This is a branch of the autonomic nervous system. It conserves and maintains your physical resources. It works together with the sympathetic nervous system (its antagonist system) to balance out your nervous system.
What does the primary visual cortex process and where is it located?
It processes visual information and is located in the occipital lobe.
Define the primary roles of BOTH Norepinephrine and Endorphins.
Norepinephrine helps the body get ready to face threats of danger. It also helps with sleep regulation (keeps you active and awake) and learning and memory. Endorphins are something release in response to stress or pain (exercise can cause them to release and it is called runner's high). The body's natural painkillers.
Explain what the Amygdala is.
The brain's "lookout." It is an almond-shaped cluster of neurons at the base of the temporal lobe. It's involved in both memory and numerous emotional responses (mostly fear and anger).
Name a characteristic of a neuron BESIDES the axon.
- cell body
- dendrites
What is the somatic nervous system?
It is a subdivision of the peripheral nervous system that receives info from sensory receptors along sensory nerves before proceeding to communicate it to the central nervous system (CNS).
What is the visual association cortex and where is it located?
This cortex enables us to make sense of visual stimuli received by the primary visual cortex and is located within the occipital lobe.