Neuroscience Chapter on Neurotransmission

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Which statement accurately describes the function of neurotransmitters at a chemical synapse?

They are exclusively stored within the nucleus of the presynaptic neuron.

They only inhibit the postsynaptic neuron.

They directly alter the genetic expression of the postsynaptic neuron.

They can be both excitatory and inhibitory depending on the receptor type. (correct)

What is the correct sequence of steps involved in neurotransmission?

Degradation, synthesis, release, binding, storage

Synthesis, degradation, release, binding, storage

Binding, transport, synthesis, release, degradation

Synthesis, storage, release, binding, degradation (correct)

Which type of synapse includes astrocytes and gliotransmitters?

Dipartite synapses

Monopartite synapses

Quad-partite synapses

Tripartite synapses (correct)

What role do gliotransmitters like glutamate and ATP play in neurotransmission?

They modify synaptic activity and enhance communication between neurons. Signup and view all the answers

Which phenomenon is most directly associated with Otto Loewi's findings on synapses?

Chemical nature of synapses Signup and view all the answers

In the context of anterograde synaptic transmission, what primarily happens when an action potential reaches the presynaptic terminal?

Calcium ions enter the presynaptic neuron, triggering neurotransmitter release. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following does NOT occur during neurotransmission?

Continuous binding to the receptor without degradation Signup and view all the answers

What role do protein kinases play in the signal transduction pathway described?

They activate genes regulated by transcription factors within the nucleus. Signup and view all the answers

Which transcription factor is specifically associated with cAMP response element-binding?

CREB Signup and view all the answers

What type of receptors are primarily associated with constitutive activity mentioned in the content?

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) Signup and view all the answers

What describes the structural configuration of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs)?

They contain seven membrane-spanning alpha-helical segments. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a third messenger as mentioned in the context?

c-jun Signup and view all the answers

Which subtype of neurotransmitter includes dopamine and serotonin?

Monoamines Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter is classified as a purine?

ATP Signup and view all the answers

What type of neurotransmitter quickly acts and is synthesized from dietary nutrients?

Small-Molecule Transmitters Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is classified as a modified amino acid neurotransmitter?

Acetylcholine Signup and view all the answers

Which gas is categorized as a neurotransmitter?

Nitric oxide Signup and view all the answers

Anandamide and 2-AG are examples of which class of neurotransmitter?

Fatty acids Signup and view all the answers

Which class of neurotransmitters is represented by endorphins and substance P?

Neuropeptides Signup and view all the answers

GABA and glycine are categorized as which type of neurotransmitter?

Amino acids Signup and view all the answers

Which of these neurotransmitters is an example of a class of gases?

Nitric oxide Signup and view all the answers

Which category does serotonin belong to?

Monoamines Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of calcium (Ca2+) at the axon terminal during neurotransmitter release?

It activates a complex with calmodulin that triggers vesicle release. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of receptors are primarily responsible for the immediate excitatory or inhibitory action on the postsynaptic neuron?

Ionotropic receptors Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'EPSP' refer to in the context of neurotransmitter action?

Excitatory post-synaptic potential, causing depolarization. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes the function of autoreceptors?

They respond to neurotransmitters released by the same neuron. Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter is synthesized from choline found in milk, eggs, and nuts?

Acetylcholine Signup and view all the answers

How is the neurotransmitter synthesized in neurons that produce peptide transmitters?

Synthetized in the cell body according to DNA instructions. Signup and view all the answers

What occurs after the neurotransmitter diffuses across the synaptic cleft?

It activates receptors on the postsynaptic membrane to elicit a response. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the synthesis location of neuropeptides from other neurotransmitters?

Produced in the cell body Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is TRUE about the effects of neurotransmitters on the postsynaptic neuron?

The same neurotransmitter can elicit different effects depending on receptor properties. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of the effects produced by neuropeptides?

Widespread and enduring Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a lipid neurotransmitter?

Anandamide Signup and view all the answers

What influences the quantum of neurotransmitter release?

The intensity of the action potential reaching the axon terminal. Signup and view all the answers

What best describes the difference between ionotropic and metabotropic receptors?

Ionotropic receptors directly mediate fast synaptic transmission, while metabotropic receptors engage in slower second messenger signaling processes. Signup and view all the answers

How do gaseous transmitters differ from traditional neurotransmitters?

Can cross cell membranes easily Signup and view all the answers

Which precursors are necessary for the synthesis of serotonin?

Tryptophan and phenylalanine Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is NOT typical of neuropeptide release?

Triggered by single action potential Signup and view all the answers

What role does zinc (Zn2+) play in neurotransmission?

It is recognized as a type of ion transmitter. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary way endocannabinoids act on presynaptic receptors?

As lipid messengers produced in postsynaptic membranes Signup and view all the answers

What is the duration of the effects of most neurotransmitters compared to neuropeptides?

Shorter, typically less than a second to a few seconds Signup and view all the answers