Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is Acetylcholine (ACh) used for?
What is the role of Norepinephrine (NE)?
Involved in setting level of arousal and in ANS
What neurotransmitter is associated with motor control and reward?
Dopamine
Degeneration of motor control causes Parkinson's.
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What is serotonin linked to?
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What condition is associated with low serotonin levels?
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What does LSD stimulate?
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GABA is always inhibitory.
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What neurotransmitter opens Cl- channels in the spinal cord?
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What enhances the effects of GABA?
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What is the function of substance P?
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What are analgesics?
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What are endocannabinoid neurotransmitters involved in?
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THC causes cannabinoid receptors to go down so that when withdrawn, nothing seems interesting. THC regulates appetite and has ___ effects.
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All neurons release one classical and one or more neuropeptides at synapses.
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What happens at low rates of action potential firing?
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What are classical neurotransmitters known for?
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How is ACh inactivated?
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Match the following terms with their definitions:
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What are neuropeptides inactivated by?
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What causes depression according to the imbalance theory?
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Study Notes
Classical Neurotransmitters Overview
- Acetylcholine (ACh) is utilized at all nerve/skeletal muscle synapses and is present in the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and brain.
- Norepinephrine (NE) plays a crucial role in arousal levels and functions within the ANS.
- Dopamine serves as a neurotransmitter for motor control and reward pathways in the brain.
Motor Control and Reward Systems
- Degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons is linked to Parkinson's disease, which affects motor control.
- Dopamine imbalances are associated with addiction and schizophrenia, indicating its significance in the reward system.
Serotonin and Its Functions
- Serotonin influences multiple systems vital for emotion, mood, behavior, appetite, brain circulation (related to migraines), and learning processes.
- Low serotonin levels are correlated with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
- LSD enhances effects on serotonin's primary excitatory receptor, illustrating its psychoactive properties.
Inhibitory Neurotransmitters
- GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is always inhibitory, primarily functioning by opening chloride (Cl-) channels in the brain.
- Glycine also serves as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, operating similarly in the spinal cord.
- Sedatives and tranquilizers, like Valium and alcohol, increase GABA effects, while caffeine inhibits GABA release.
Excitatory Neurotransmitters
- Glutamate is the most common excitatory neurotransmitter, while aspartate also functions as an excitatory agent.
Pain-Related Neurotransmitters
- Substance P operates as a neuropeptide functioning as a pain neurotransmitter.
- The body produces analgesics, which are natural painkillers.
Endocannabinoids and THC
- Endocannabinoids, such as anandamide and 2-AG, regulate the activity of various neurotransmitter systems, influencing novelty experiences and habituation.
- THC downregulates cannabinoid receptors leading to a lack of interest when withdrawn, while also regulating appetite and exerting anti-nausea effects.
Neuropeptide Release Mechanisms
- Neurons release one classical neurotransmitter and one or more neuropeptides at synapses.
- Low action potential firing results in the release of only classical neurotransmitters, while higher rates cause both classical and neuropeptides to be released.
Characteristics and Inactivation of Neurotransmitters
- Classical neurotransmitters act quickly and are inactivated shortly after release.
- Acetylcholine is inactivated by cholinesterase, an enzyme located on the postsynaptic membrane, with nerve gases inhibiting this enzyme, causing severe muscular and bodily symptoms.
- Antidotes to acetylcholine include atropine, which blocks specific ACh receptors, and oximes, which reactivate cholinesterase.
Neuropeptide Inactivation
- Neuropeptides are inactivated slowly by enzymes found in extracellular fluid and bloodstream.
Mental Health Implications
- Depression may arise from an imbalance among serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, highlighting the interconnectedness of these neurotransmitters.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Test your knowledge of classical neurotransmitters with this set of flashcards. Explore definitions and functions of key neurotransmitters like Acetylcholine, Norepinephrine, and Dopamine. Perfect for students studying neuroscience or related fields.
