Synaptic transmission

• How are signals transmitted in neurons?

  Signals in neurons are transmitted electrically or chemically.
• How long does synaptic transmission typically take?

  Synaptic transmission takes a fraction of a second.
• What arrives at the presynaptic neuron axon terminal during synaptic transmission?

  An electrical impulse (action potential).
• What does the action potential stimulate in the presynaptic neuron?

  • Stimulates synaptic vesicles
  • Releases neurotransmitter contents into the synaptic cleft
• What happens to neurotransmitters after they are released into the synapse?

  They diffuse into the synapse and bind with receptors on the postsynaptic neurone.
• What can neurotransmitters cause in the postsynaptic neuron?

  They can cause either an excitatory or inhibitory impulse.
• What happens to neurotransmitters after they bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron?

  They are taken back up into the presynaptic neuron (reuptake), stored in vesicles, and made ready for reuse.
• What are the two main types of neurotransmitters?

  • Excitatory neurotransmitters
  • Inhibitory neurotransmitters
• Is dopamine an excitatory or inhibitory neurotransmitter?

  Dopamine is an excitatory neurotransmitter.
• What does it mean that dopamine is an excitatory neurotransmitter?

  It means dopamine increases the likelihood of the receiving neuron firing.
• What are the effects of dopamine when it is in the right balance?

  It makes us feel good, motivated, and focused.
• Is serotonin an excitatory or inhibitory neurotransmitter?

  Serotonin is an inhibitory neurotransmitter.
• What does it mean that serotonin is an inhibitory neurotransmitter?

  It means serotonin decreases the likelihood of the receiving neuron firing.
• What are the effects of serotonin when it is at the right level in the brain?

  We feel calm and happier, and have a balanced mood.
• What are the key terms related to synaptic transmission?

  • Autonomic nervous system (ANS)
  • Central nervous system (CNS)
  • Excitatory
  • Inhibitory
  • Motor neuron
  • Nervous system
  • Neurotransmitter
  • Peripheral nervous system (PNS)
  • Relay neuron
  • Sensory neuron
  • Somatic nervous system (SNS)
  • Synaptic transmission