Neurophysiology and Synapses Review

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to neurophysiology and the functioning of the nervous system as studied in the course.

Nernst Equation

A mathematical formula used to calculate the equilibrium potential for a specific ion across a membrane.

Afferent Nerves

Nerves that carry sensory information from the body to the central nervous system.

Efferent Nerves

Nerves that carry commands from the central nervous system to the body, primarily to muscles.

Somatic Nervous System

A division of the peripheral nervous system that controls voluntary movements by activating skeletal muscles.

Autonomic Nervous System

A division of the peripheral nervous system that regulates involuntary responses, controlling organs and glands.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic nervous system that prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic nervous system that promotes 'rest and digest' responses.

Neurotransmitter

A chemical messenger that transmits signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.

Agonist

A substance that enhances neurotransmission by mimicking or increasing the effect of a neurotransmitter.

Antagonist

A substance that inhibits neurotransmission by blocking the action of a neurotransmitter at its receptor.

Action Potential

A rapid rise and fall in voltage across a neuronal membrane due to ion movement, leading to the propagation of an impulse.

Dendrite

Branch-like structures of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons.

Synapse

The junction between two neurons where neurotransmitters are released to transmit signals.

Neuroanatomy

The study of the structure and organization of the nervous system.

Cranial Nerves

Nerves that emerge directly from the brain and brainstem, responsible for sensory and motor functions.

Vagus Nerve

A cranial nerve that regulates autonomic functions in the body, such as heart rate and digestion.

Neuroplasticity

The ability of the brain to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life.

Excitatory Neurotransmitter

A type of neurotransmitter that increases the likelihood of the firing of a postsynaptic neuron.

Inhibitory Neurotransmitter

A type of neurotransmitter that decreases the likelihood of the firing of a postsynaptic neuron.

Phospholipid Bilayer

A double layer of phospholipids that makes up the core of cell membranes, providing structural integrity.

Neuropharmacology

The study of how drugs affect the nervous system and behavior.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The part of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The part of the nervous system that lies outside the central nervous system, including all peripheral nerves.

Glial Cells

Non-neuronal cells in the nervous system that support, protect, and maintain the proper functioning of neurons.

Long Term Potentiation (LTP)

A long-lasting enhancement in signal transmission between two neurons that results from their repeated stimulation.

Neuropeptides

Small protein-like molecules used by neurons to communicate with each other, involved in various brain functions.

Ligand-gated Ion Channel

A type of ion channel that opens or closes in response to the binding of a neurotransmitter.

Metabotropic Receptor

A type of neurotransmitter receptor that works through a second messenger system and not directly through an ion channel.

Membrane Potential

The electrical potential difference across a cell's membrane, crucial for action potentials.