Neuroscience Chapter on Synapses
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Questions and Answers

What is the name for the point of communication between neurons?

  • Soma
  • Synapse (correct)
  • Dendrite
  • Axon
  • What is the direction of transmission of an action potential at a synapse?

  • From the postsynaptic cell to the presynaptic cell
  • From the presynaptic cell to the postsynaptic cell (correct)
  • Bidirectional
  • None of the above
  • What type of synapse occurs when the terminal bouton of one neuron synapses on the dendrite of another neuron?

  • Axosomatic synapse
  • Axodendritic synapse (correct)
  • Axoaxonic synapse
  • None of the above
  • What type of synapse occurs when the terminal bouton of one neuron synapses on the soma of another neuron?

    <p>Axosomatic synapse (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of synapse occurs when the terminal bouton of one neuron synapses on the terminal bouton of another neuron?

    <p>Axoaxonic synapse (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of astrocytes in the synapse?

    <p>To help regulate the chemical environment of the synapse (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the effect of presynaptic inhibition?

    <p>Reduced transmitter release from the terminal bouton (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the structures that contain thousands of molecules of neurotransmitters?

    <p>Synaptic vesicles (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of metabotropic receptors?

    <p>They are faster acting than ionotropic receptors. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of second messengers in the context of neurotransmission?

    <p>Activating protein kinases, leading to phosphorylation of target proteins. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an example of how an ionotropic receptor can influence cellular function?

    <p>Binding to a neurotransmitter, directly triggering the opening of an ion channel. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of ionotropic receptor leads to hyperpolarization of the post-synaptic cell?

    <p>Cl- channels (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the mechanism by which metabotropic receptors can influence ion channel activity?

    <p>Activating G-proteins, which then can interact with and modify ion channels. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of terminal autoreceptors?

    <p>They are located on the cell body or dendrites. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of somatodendritic autoreceptors?

    <p>To slow down the rate of neuron firing. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key difference between co-release and co-transmission?

    <p>Co-release involves multiple neurotransmitters being released from a single action potential, while co-transmission involves different neurotransmitters being released from different areas of the axon terminal. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a method of neurotransmitter inactivation?

    <p>Activation of autoreceptors (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of neurotransmitter inactivation is commonly observed for acetylcholine (ACh)?

    <p>Enzymatic degradation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary mechanism behind "differential Ca++ sensitivity" in co-transmission?

    <p>Different neurotransmitters require different levels of calcium influx for release. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements best describes Dale's Principle?

    <p>A neuron releases the same neurotransmitter at all of its synapses. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best explains the concept of "spatial segregation" in co-transmission?

    <p>Different neurotransmitters are released from different locations on the presynaptic neuron. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of calcium ions (Ca2+) in neurotransmitter release?

    <p>Ca2+ ions trigger the fusion of synaptic vesicles with the presynaptic membrane, releasing neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of autoreceptors in neurotransmitter release?

    <p>Autoreceptors are located on presynaptic neurons, where they monitor and regulate the release of neurotransmitters. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does botulinum toxin affect neurotransmitter release?

    <p>Botulinum toxin prevents the fusion of synaptic vesicles with the presynaptic membrane, blocking neurotransmitter release. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a factor that regulates neurotransmitter release?

    <p>Activation of postsynaptic receptors (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are neuromodulators, and how do they differ from neurotransmitters?

    <p>Neuromodulators have a long-lasting effect on neuronal activity, while neurotransmitters have a short-lasting effect. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following neurotransmitters is often considered a neuromodulator of glutamate and GABA?

    <p>Dopamine (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the location of autoreceptors?

    <p>Presynaptic membrane of the same neuron (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the rate of neuron firing influence neurotransmitter release?

    <p>A higher firing rate leads to increased neurotransmitter release. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a hallmark symptom of Schizophrenia?

    <p>Agitation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the 50% concordance rate for schizophrenia in monozygotic twins?

    <p>It indicates that both genetic and environmental factors play a significant role in schizophrenia. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do second messengers contribute to the development of psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia?

    <p>By influencing gene expression through epigenetic mechanisms, potentially impacting neurotransmitter systems. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the major premise regarding the development of schizophrenia?

    <p>It is caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key role of epigenetics in the context of schizophrenia?

    <p>Regulation of gene activity without altering the DNA sequence. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a class of neurotransmitters?

    <p>Carbohydrates (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of the axon terminal in neurotransmission?

    <p>Releasing neurotransmitters into the synapse (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about neuropeptide synthesis is TRUE?

    <p>They are cleaved from precursor proteins (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the difference between classical neurotransmitters and neuropeptides?

    <p>Classical neurotransmitters are packaged in small vesicles, while neuropeptides are packaged in large vesicles. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which neurotransmitter is primarily associated with the rewarding effects of drugs?

    <p>Dopamine (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a neurotransmitter involved in the effects of hallucinogens?

    <p>Serotonin (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Neurotransmitter

    Chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse between neurons.

    Exocytosis

    Process by which vesicles fuse with the cell membrane to release neurotransmitters.

    Voltage-gated Ca2+ channels

    Channels that open in response to membrane depolarization, allowing Ca2+ entry.

    Botulinum Toxin

    A toxin that blocks neurotransmitter release at neuromuscular junctions, causing paralysis.

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    Neuromodulators

    Substances that indirectly influence neurotransmission, altering effects of primary neurotransmitters.

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    Autoreceptors

    Receptors on a neuron that respond to the neurotransmitter it releases, regulating its own activity.

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    Factors regulating neurotransmitter release

    Rate of neuron firing, vesicle exocytosis probability, and autoreceptor activity influence neurotransmitter release.

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    Glutamate

    A primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, important for synaptic plasticity and memory.

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    Terminal autoreceptors

    Receptors on terminal boutons that reduce neurotransmitter release when activated by neurotransmitter.

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    Somatodendritic autoreceptors

    Receptors on cell bodies or dendrites that slow the firing rate of neurons when activated by neurotransmitter.

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    Dale's Principle

    The outdated principle stating one neuron releases one neurotransmitter at all synapses.

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    Co-Release

    The simultaneous release of multiple neurotransmitters from a single action potential.

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    Co-Transmission

    Different neurotransmitters released from distinct regions of the axon terminal.

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    Enzymatic degradation

    The process where enzymes break down neurotransmitters in the synapse to stop signaling.

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    Neurotransmitter reuptake

    The process of transporting neurotransmitters back into the cell for recycling.

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    Inactivation of neurotransmitters

    Methods to stop neurotransmitter signals, such as degradation or reuptake.

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    Ionotropic Na+ Channels

    Channels allowing Na+ to enter, causing depolarization and excitation.

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    Ionotropic Ca2+ Channels

    Channels letting Ca2+ in, also causing depolarization and excitatory effects.

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    Ionotropic Cl- Channels

    Channels allowing Cl- out, resulting in hyperpolarization and inhibition.

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    Metabotropic Receptors

    Receptors activating G-proteins, causing slower but lasting responses.

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    Second Messengers

    Molecules activated by receptors that phosphorylate proteins and affect cellular functions.

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    Presynaptic Facilitation

    Enhanced release of neurotransmitter from the presynaptic terminal.

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    Chemical Signaling

    Communication between neurons, muscle cells, or glands via neurotransmitters.

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    Classes of Neurotransmitters

    Categories including amino acids, monoamines, and neuropeptides.

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    Neurotransmitter Synthesis

    Process by which neurons create neurotransmitters.

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    Neuropeptides

    Large neurotransmitter molecules synthesized from precursor proteins.

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    Vesicles in Neurotransmission

    Small sacs that store and transport neurotransmitters.

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    Dopamine

    A neurotransmitter involved in reward and addiction processes.

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    Epigenetics

    The study of how gene activity is regulated without changes to the DNA sequence, influencing traits and disorders.

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    Schizophrenia

    A psychiatric disorder affecting thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, characterized by symptoms like delusions and hallucinations.

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    Chromatin Remodeling

    The process by which the structure of chromatin is altered to regulate gene expression and access to DNA.

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    Genetic-Environmental Interaction

    The interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors, influencing the risk of developing disorders.

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    Synapse

    The point of communication between two neurons where neurotransmitters are transmitted.

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    Presynaptic Cell

    The neuron sending the signal across the synapse, releasing neurotransmitters.

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    Postsynaptic Cell

    The neuron receiving the signal after neurotransmitter binding.

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    Axodendritic Synapse

    A synapse where the terminal bouton of one neuron connects to the dendrite of another neuron.

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    Axosomatic Synapse

    A synapse where the terminal bouton connects directly to the soma (cell body) of another neuron.

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    Axoaxonic Synapse

    A synapse where one neuron's terminal bouton connects to another's terminal bouton.

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    Presynaptic Inhibition

    The process where one neuron reduces the neurotransmitter release from another neuron.

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    Study Notes

    Module 1: Foundations

    • Principles of pharmacology are covered
    • Structure and function of the nervous system are discussed
    • Chemical signaling of neurotransmitters is examined

    Chemical Signaling by Neurotransmitters

    • Chemical Signaling Between Neurons: Neurotransmitters facilitate communication between neurons
    • Neurotransmitter Synthesis, Release, and Inactivation: This process involves different classes of neurotransmitters, their synthesis, release, and inactivation mechanisms
    • Neurotransmitter Receptors and Second-Messenger Systems: This section discusses the different types of neurotransmitter receptors and their roles in signaling
    • Putting it all Together: This section integrates the concepts of chemical signaling to understand the broader picture

    Structure of Neuron

    • Neuron structure includes axons, dendrites, a soma (cell body), and a myelin sheath
    • Dendrites receive signals, axons transmit signals, and the soma maintains the functions of the neuron
    • The synaptic cleft is the space between the axon terminal and the receiving dendrite
    • Chemical signals are exchanged at this synapse

    Synapse

    • Neurons aren't physically connected
    • The synapse is the point of connection, where neurons communicate
    • Transmission of action potentials occurs in one direction, from the presynaptic cell to the postsynaptic cell
    • Synaptic vesicles in the presynaptic neuron release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft
    • Neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron.

    Neural Threesome

    • Astrocytes are glial cells that surround synapses and are involved in synaptic activity, influencing communication between neurons
    • Signals at one synapse can propagate elsewhere

    Chemical Signaling between Neurons (Axodendritic, Axosomatic, Axoaxonic)

    • Axodendritic synapses: a terminal bouton of one neuron synapses onto a dendrite of another neuron
    • Axosomatic synapses: a terminal bouton of one neuron synapses onto the soma (cell body) of another neuron
    • Axoaxonic synapses: a terminal bouton of one neuron synapses onto a terminal bouton of another neuron

    Chemical Signaling between nerve cells (Neuromuscular Junction)

    • Neuromuscular junctions are synapses between neurons and muscle cells
    • Neurotransmitters at neuromuscular junctions control muscle contraction.

    Neurotransmitter Basics

    • More than 100 neurotransmitter chemicals are identified
    • Neurotransmitter classes include amino acids, monoamines, acetylcholine, neuropeptides, lipids, and gases

    Major Categories of Neurotransmitters

    • A table categorizes classic and non-classic neurotransmitters
    • Examples of classic neurotransmitters listed include glutamate, GABA, glycine, and acetylcholine

    Neurotransmitter Synthesis

    • An individual neuron can produce multiple neurotransmitters.
    • Vesicles can store multiple neurotransmitters.
    • Small vesicles typically contain classic neurotransmitters while large vesicles contain neuropeptides.

    Neurotransmitter Release

    • A wave of depolarization opens calcium channels in the axon terminal, which causes neurotransmitters' release.
    • Neurotransmitters' release occurs when vesicles fuse with the cell membrane.

    Neurotransmitter Release- Botulinum Toxin

    • Botulism is a bacterial toxin that blocks neurotransmitter release in neuromuscular junctions
    • The toxin interferes with proteins involved in the release process.

    Neurotransmitters Release

    • Neuromodulators play an indirect role in transmitting signals, influencing actions of other neurotransmitters.
    • Examples of neuromodulators include dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.

    Neurotransmitter Release- Regulation

    • Regulation of neurotransmitter release is controlled by the firing rate of the neuron
    • Some actions potentials that allow calcium into the cell might not trigger neurotransmitter release
    • Autoreceptors are receptors for neurotransmitters released by the releasing neuron itself

    Terminal and Somatodendritic Autoreceptors

    • Terminal autoreceptors influence neurotransmitter release at the axon terminal.
    • Somatodendritic autoreceptors regulate neuron firing rate.

    Dale's Principle and Co-Release/Co-Transmission

    • Dale's principle suggests that one neuron releases only one neurotransmitter
    • Co-release/Co-Transmission: a single action potential can typically release different NTs to differing areas of the axon terminal.

    Neurotransmitter Inactivation

    • Neurotransmitters must leave the synaptic cleft for signal transmission to end
    • Enzymes can break down neurotransmitters in the synapse
    • Neurotransmitters are taken back up by transporter proteins in the membrane of the presynaptic neuron or glial cells

    Neurotransmitter Receptors

    • Neurotransmitter receptors are proteins in cell membranes
    • Neurotransmitters bind to receptors, activating and resulting in either an excitatory or inhibitory effect
    • Different receptor subtypes exist.

    Neurotransmitter Receptors and Second-Messenger Systems

    • Neurotransmitters bind to multiple receptor subtypes
    • Drugs can be designed to affect specific receptor subtypes.
    • Two major types are ionotropic and metabotropic receptors

    Ionotropic Receptors

    • Consist of 4-5 subunits with an ion channel at the center
    • Binding opens ion channels, leading to an excitatory or inhibitory response
    • Example: Acetylcholine, glutamate, GABA, cause Na+, Ca++, or Cl- permeation
    • This allows for rapid transmission
    • These channels are very fast, in the millisecond range

    Metabotropic Receptors

    • Consist of 7 trans-membrane domains
    • They activate G-proteins, triggering a cascade of intracellular events
    • Effects are slower but longer-lasting than ionotropic receptors
    • Example: G-proteins activate or inhibit effector enzymes, leading to a cellular response

    Second Messengers

    • Second messengers activate protein kinases, causing phosphorylation of substrate proteins
    • They initiate a cascade of events ultimately regulating cellular processes such as gene expression

    Application: Second Messenger and Psychiatric Disorders

    • Epigenetics may be related to psychiatric disorders as second messengers can affect gene regulation
    • Neurotransmitters including GABA and glutamate are studied
    • Candidate Genes that play a role in neurotransmitter function/regulation are important, including GABA and glutamate
    • Brain imaging study findings show patterns in brain activity related to psychiatric illnesses.

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    Test your knowledge on synaptic communication in neuroscience with this quiz. Explore questions about synapse types, neurotransmitter functions, and receptor characteristics. Perfect for students studying neural connections and neurotransmission.

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