Cards (45)

  • What happens when a neurotransmitter binds to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron?
    It triggers a post-synaptic potential
  • How do neurotransmitters function in the nervous system?
    They transmit signals between neurons across synapses
  • What is synaptic transmission?
    Communication between neurons at a synapse
  • What is the process of removing neurotransmitters from the synapse called?
    Reuptake
  • What is a synapse?
    The gap between two nerve cells
  • What is the significance of post-synaptic potential in synaptic transmission?
    It determines the response of the postsynaptic neuron
  • What is the synaptic cleft?
    It is the gap between two neurons
  • What is a neurotransmitter?
    A chemical released by neurons
  • What are the components of synaptic transmission?
    • Release of neurotransmitters from presynaptic terminal
    • Travel across synaptic cleft
    • Binding to receptors on postsynaptic membrane
    • Initiation of response in receiving neuron
  • What are the steps involved in synaptic transmission?
    1. Neurotransmitter is released from presynaptic neuron
    2. Neurotransmitter travels across the synapse
    3. Binds to receptors on postsynaptic neuron, triggering post-synaptic potential
  • What is the role of the presynaptic neuron?
    It releases neurotransmitters
  • What are neurotransmitters?
    Chemical messengers transmitting signals
  • What is the function of the presynaptic terminal?
    It contains synaptic vesicles for neurotransmitter release
  • What is the role of the postsynaptic membrane?
    It has specialized receptors for neurotransmitters
  • What is the process called that ends neurotransmitter action in the synapse?
    Reuptake
  • What happens when dopamine is released in the brain?
    It binds to receptors, increasing neuron firing
  • What are the consequences of dopamine not being reuptaken after release?
    • Excessive activation of dopamine receptors
    • Potential dysfunction in the nervous system
  • How does reuptake affect signal transmission in the synapse?
    It stops signal transmission and prepares for future messages
  • Which neurotransmitters use reuptake to end their action?
    • Serotonin
    • Dopamine
    • Norepinephrine
    • GABA
  • If reuptake is inhibited, what might be a potential effect on neurotransmitter signaling?
    Increased signaling and overstimulation
  • What is found in the presynaptic terminal?
    Synaptic vesicles
  • What are the three main parts of a synapse?
    Presynaptic terminal, synaptic cleft, postsynaptic membrane
  • What is the primary function of dopamine?
    Controls pleasure and reward
  • What role do transporter proteins play in reuptake?
    They remove neurotransmitters from the synapse
  • How do neurotransmitters function in a synapse?
    They travel across the synapse to transmit signals
  • How does reuptake regulate norepinephrine?
    It regulates arousal
  • How does reuptake affect GABA's function?
    It ensures proper inhibition
  • Why is understanding reuptake important for drug effects?
    • Helps grasp how antidepressants work
    • Affects how other drugs influence the nervous system
  • What condition are SSRIs primarily used to treat?
    Depression
  • What happens to neurotransmitters during reuptake?
    They are removed from the synapse
  • What is the benefit of recycling neurotransmitters through reuptake?
    Ensures neurotransmitters are available for transmission
  • What is the role of reuptake in the nervous system?
    Regulating neurotransmitter levels in the synapse
  • What is GABA's primary function as a neurotransmitter?
    It is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter
  • How do SSRIs affect serotonin levels in the brain?
    They prevent serotonin reabsorption, increasing availability.
  • Why is communication in the nervous system considered efficient due to reuptake?
    It maintains balance and availability of neurotransmitters
  • Why is understanding reuptake important for medication development?
    It helps target neurotransmitter systems effectively.
  • How does reuptake affect dopamine signaling?
    It controls signaling through dopamine transporters
  • How does reuptake prevent overstimulation in the nervous system?
    By removing neurotransmitters from the synapse
  • What role does serotonin play in the body?
    Regulates mood, sleep, and appetite
  • How is excess serotonin managed in the synapse?
    Reabsorbed by serotonin transporters