15 Questions
Which type of summation occurs when a neuron sends repeated EPSPs over time?
Temporal summation
What is the main way neurons communicate?
Chemical communication
What triggers the release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft?
Calcium influx
What is the main function of reuptake proteins?
To bring neurotransmitters back into the neuron
What happens when the membrane potential increases above the excitability threshold?
An action potential occurs
Which of the following is true about the resting membrane potential of a neuron?
The inside of the neuron is negative due to proteins and chloride ions.
What is the purpose of the refractory period in a neuron?
To ensure action potentials only proceed in one direction.
Which of the following is true about myelinated neurons?
They protect and speed up the electrical signal.
What is the function of oligodendrocytes in the brain?
To maintain neural structure and support communication.
What is the study of how neurons communicate with each other to generate an action potential called?
Neurochemistry/Neuropharmacology
Which process is responsible for clearing unbound neurotransmitters from the synapse?
Endocytosis
What type of receptors are ligand-gated ion channels composed of subunits with orthosteric sites for neurotransmitter binding?
Ionotropic receptors
Which disorders are linked to mutations in genes encoding postsynaptic density proteins?
Schizophrenia, autism, and learning disabilities
What type of receptors are connected to G proteins and can also be ion channels?
Metabotropic receptors
What is the role of ion channels in neurotransmission?
Allow ions to enter or exit the neuron, and their binding to neurotransmitters causes depolarization or inhibition
Study Notes
Neurotransmitter Release, Receptors, and Effects
- Neurotransmitters are released through exocytosis upon an action potential.
- Unbound neurotransmitters are cleared from the synapse through endocytosis or transporters.
- Synaptic cleft contains neurotransmitters, which bind to receptors in the postsynaptic density.
- Mutations in genes encoding postsynaptic density proteins are linked to disorders like schizophrenia, autism, and learning disabilities.
- Neuropharmacology studies receptor systems, including ionotropic and metabotropic receptors.
- Ionotropic receptors are ligand-gated ion channels composed of subunits with orthosteric sites for neurotransmitter binding.
- Metabotropic receptors are connected to G proteins and can also be ion channels.
- Neurotransmitters are synthesized in the presynaptic terminal and transported to the synaptic cleft.
- Enzymes metabolize neurotransmitters in the presynaptic terminal.
- Ion channels allow ions to enter or exit the neuron, and their binding to neurotransmitters causes depolarization or inhibition.
- Metabotropic receptors bind to G proteins and trigger downstream effects, including activation of ion channels or second messenger systems.
- Multiple second messenger systems exist, and they can activate enzymes, regulate neuron response to neurotransmitters, and cause release of calcium from the cell.
Test your knowledge on neurotransmitter release, receptors, and their effects with this quiz. Explore the key concepts, including exocytosis, synaptic cleft, ionotropic and metabotropic receptors, and the role of neurotransmitters in various disorders. Challenge yourself and expand your understanding of neuropharmacology and the complex mechanisms underlying neurotransmission.
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