Neuroscience Chapter on Membrane Functions

A method to measure ion currents while maintaining a constant membrane voltage.

Proteins that allow ions to pass through the cell membrane.

Channels that open/close in response to changes in membrane voltage.

Ion channels that remain open, allowing constant ion flow.

Channels that open/close when a specific molecule binds to them.

Part of a neuron that transmits signals away from the spinal cord to muscles or cells.

A reflex that involves only one synapse between sensory and motor neurons.

Neurons with a single process that branches into central and peripheral axons.

Basic elements in a reflex consisting of sensor, afferent fiber, interneuron, efferent fiber, and effector.

Mechanism where one sensory fiber inhibits a flexor muscle while exciting an extensor muscle via interneuron connections.

A process where repeated stimulation increases response to a stimulus without direct interaction.

Serotonin modulates sensory neuron activity through its receptors.

Rapid change in membrane potential that transmits signals along neurons.

A decrease in potassium flow due to modulation, affecting neuron repolarization.

A second messenger that carries signals inside cells, derived from ATP.

An enzyme activated by cAMP that phosphorylates target proteins.

Flies used in studies to analyze gene effects on learning behaviors.

A fly mutant affecting adenylyl-cyclase, disrupting cAMP production and learning.

Transcription factor activated by cAMP, influencing gene expression crucial for memory.

Process of strengthening or creating connections between neurons for lasting memories.

A type of glutamate receptor that requires depolarization to open.

Glutamate receptors that directly generate EPSPs without needing depolarization.

Receptors that only function as neurotransmitters and are inhibitory in nature.

Ionotropic GABA receptors that open chloride channels causing hyperpolarization.

Metabotropic GABA receptors that activate G-proteins leading to potassium channel opening.

A GABA antagonist that blocks receptor sites, potentially causing seizures.

A GABA agonist that activates GABA receptors to enhance inhibition.

A biogenic amine neurotransmitter important for reward and movement.

A neurotransmitter involved in alertness and motivation, acting via metabotropic receptors.

Involves the release of neuropeptides around cells, affecting nearby synapses.

Membranes consist mainly of lipids and proteins; red blood cells are about 50% lipid and 50% proteins.

This membrane is about 70% protein, crucial for ATP production due to its large number of proteins.

The myelin sheath is composed of approximately 70% lipids.

Phospholipids have a hydrophilic head and hydrophobic tail, forming the main component of plasma membranes.

Membranes act as barriers against hydrophilic molecules, allowing selective permeability.

The primary structure refers to the sequence of amino acids linked by peptide bonds.

Involves three main structures: alpha helix, beta sheet, and random coil formed from folded polypeptide chains.

Proteins can change their conformation, which affects their function based on amino acid composition.

Cells that produce and move cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain and spinal cord.

Fluid that fills the cavities in the brain and spinal cord, providing cushioning and nutrient transport.

The synapse between a motor neuron and a muscle fiber where signal transmission occurs.

The electrical potential generated in a muscle fiber in response to a stimulus.

Transient change in membrane potential at the motor end plate of a muscle fiber due to neurotransmitter binding.

The neurotransmitter released at the neuromuscular junction that triggers muscle contraction.

An enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft to stop muscle stimulation.

Causes the release of neurotransmitter vesicles at the presynaptic terminal during synaptic transmission.

Process of neurotransmitter release from vesicles into the synaptic cleft.

Cytoskeletal elements that hold synaptic vesicles in place at the nerve terminal.

A v-snare protein essential for docking synaptic vesicles to the presynaptic terminal membrane.

A t-snare protein that helps in anchoring vesicles to the plasma membrane during neurotransmitter release.

Protein that senses calcium influx and triggers vesicle fusion at the presynaptic membrane.

A change in membrane potential that varies in size and is dependent on the strength of a stimulus.