brain & cognition

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What role do neurotransmitters play in synaptic transmission?

They facilitate communication between neurons and other cells. (correct)

They convert electrical signals into chemical signals.

They destroy excess neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft.

They inhibit the release of ions from the postsynaptic membrane.

What is the function of synaptic vesicles?

To transport ions across the presynaptic membrane.

To store and release neurotransmitter molecules. (correct)

To initiate synaptic transmission from the postsynaptic neuron.

To bind neurotransmitters to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane.

What occurs after the arrival of the action potential during neurotransmission?

Binding of neurotransmitters to postsynaptic receptors

Vesicle fusion with the presynaptic membrane (correct)

Increase in sodium ion channels permeability

Reuptake of neurotransmitters

Which component is found on the presynaptic membrane that is essential for neurotransmitter release?

Voltage-gated calcium channels. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly describes the function of calcium ions (Ca2+) during neurotransmission?

They trigger synaptic vesicles to fuse with the presynaptic membrane Signup and view all the answers

Where are receptors located in the synaptic transmission process?

On the postsynaptic membrane of the receiving neuron. Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of neurotransmitter binding to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs)?

Alteration of gene expression or opening of other ion channels Signup and view all the answers

What separates the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons?

The synaptic cleft. Signup and view all the answers

Which mechanism allows for recycling of neurotransmitters back into the presynaptic neuron?

Reuptake Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of neurotransmitter clearance from the synaptic cleft?

To prevent continuous stimulation of the postsynaptic neuron Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes an excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP)?

Involves opening of ion channels resulting in depolarization Signup and view all the answers

Which process contributes to the degradation of neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft?

Enzymatic degradation Signup and view all the answers

What type of effect can acetylcholine have depending on its receptor binding?

Can be both excitatory and inhibitory Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between ionotropic receptors and metabotropic receptors?

Ionotropic receptors open ion channels directly, whereas metabotropic receptors activate G proteins to influence ion channels indirectly. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes receptor plasticity?

It is the process that modifies the number and sensitivity of receptors, affecting synaptic connection strength. Signup and view all the answers

What role do second messengers play in metabotropic receptor signaling?

They modulate various cellular processes, including affecting gene expression. Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter is known to activate both nicotinic and muscarinic receptors?

Acetylcholine Signup and view all the answers

What effect do SSRIs have in the treatment of depression?

They selectively inhibit the reuptake of serotonin, increasing its availability in the synapse. Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter is primarily excitatory and plays crucial roles in learning and memory?

Glutamate Signup and view all the answers

What condition may arise from an excess of glutamate in the nervous system?

Cell death Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter serves as the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system?

GABA Signup and view all the answers

Dopamine is involved in which of the following functions?

Motor control and reward Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter is synthesized from tryptophan and plays a role in mood regulation?

Serotonin Signup and view all the answers

What is the main physiological role of norepinephrine?

Arousal and mood regulation Signup and view all the answers

Which group of neurotransmitters includes endorphins?

Neuropeptides Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following neurotransmitters is considered an excitatory neurotransmitter that works alongside glutamate?

Aspartate Signup and view all the answers

What happens during the binding of neurotransmitters to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane?

Ion channels open, leading to changes in membrane potential. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes Excitatory Postsynaptic Potentials (EPSPs)?

They increase the likelihood of the neuron firing an action potential. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of ion movement is primarily associated with Inhibitory Postsynaptic Potentials (IPSPs)?

Negatively charged ions enter the neuron. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of serotonin in neurotransmission?

To influence the function of diverse brain regions. Signup and view all the answers

What role do receptors play in neurotransmission?

They determine how neurons respond to neurotransmitters. Signup and view all the answers

What effect do EPSPs and IPSPs have on signal integration in the postsynaptic neuron?

Their combined effect determines if an action potential is fired. Signup and view all the answers

How does serotonin's interaction with receptor subtypes relate to depression?

Altered serotonin signaling can influence mood disorders. Signup and view all the answers

Which process describes the overall change in membrane potential at the axon hillock?

The combined effects of inputs determine action potential firing. Signup and view all the answers