Neurons & Synapses
What part of the neuron receives signals from presynaptic neurons?
Dendrites
Resting Membrane Potential
What is the primary function of GABA in the nervous system?
Primary Inhibitory Neurotransmitter. Prevents, delays, or dampens signals.
What is a drug (prescription or street) that primarily affects the dopamine pathways in the brain.
LDOPA, Methamphetamine, Stimulants
What are the 2 divisions of the ANS and the function of each?
Sympathetic- Fight or Flight, Parapympathetic- Rest and Digest
In the synapse, where would you find receptors?
The post-synaptic neuron
What do we call the process of a neuron getting gradually more positive as the action potential is fired?
Depolarization
What are the TWO primary functions of dopamine?
1) Motivation/Reward
2) Fine Motor Control
Name a drug (street or prescription) that mainly works on serotonin pathways in the brain.
SSRIs, MDMA
Which division of the ANS uses only acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter?
Parasympathetic
What do we call the "body" of the neuron?
The Soma
What must a neuron meet in order to fire an action potential?
Threshold (-55 mV)
Name a disorder related to decreased serotonin (5-HT) in the brain.
Depression
Name a disorder associated with too much glutamate in the brain.
Epilepsy, Alzheimers, ALS
Which division of the ANS has ganglia closer to the spinal cord?
Sympathetic
What do we call the rings that encase neurotransmitters before they are released into the synapse?
Synaptic Vesicles
Why is the refractory period important?
It prevents neurons from firing uncontrolled or too quickly together.
What is the primary function of norepinephrine?
Fight or Flight (Sympathetic Nervous System)
Name a drug (prescription or street) that mimicks the effects of GABA in the brain.
Alcohol, Xanax, Ambien
What 2 places do the nerves of the parasympathetic nevrous system originate?
Cranial & Sacral
What part of the neuron collects all electrical changes in the neuron and determines if the neuron has met threshold to fire an action potential?
The Axon Hillock
What ion is primarily responsible for the refractory period?
Potassium
What disorder is commonly associated with lack of endorphins?
Chronic Pain, Depression
What is the ONLY drug that simulates the effects of epinepherine (adrenaline)?
Epi Pens
What would be the likely effect on the heart if the sympathetic nervous system is activated?
HR would increase, BP would increase