Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmission

The process by which neurons communicate via electrochemical signals.

Soma

The cell body of a neuron that holds the nucleus.

Dendrites

The part of a neuron where the first signal is received.

Axon

A structure similar to the spinal cord of the neuron through which messages travel.

Myelin Sheath

A fatty substance that insulates and protects the axon.

Axon Terminal

The part of the neuron where messages are sent to leave the neuron.

Terminal Button

The structure that releases neurotransmitters to communicate with another neuron.

Resting Potential

The state of a neuron when it is not activated, with negative ions inside and positive ions outside.

Action Potential

An electrical impulse that is initiated in the soma and travels down the axon.

Synaptogenesis

The process of creating new neural pathways through the activation of neurons.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical substances released by terminal buttons that are essential for neuron communication.

Excitatory Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters that increase the likelihood of a neuron firing an action potential.

Inhibitory Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters that decrease the likelihood of a neuron firing an action potential.

Glutamate

The main excitatory neurotransmitter associated with learning and memory formation.

GABA

The major inhibitory neurotransmitter that calms the nervous system by preventing neurons from firing.

Neuromodulators

Chemicals that influence neurotransmitter effects across a wider range of neurons.

Dopamine

A neuromodulator associated with drive, motivation, and pleasure.

Serotonin

An inhibitory neurotransmitter known for stabilizing mood and well-being.

Lock and Key Model

A model describing how neurotransmitters must match the receptor site on a neuron to bind.

Reuptake

The process by which neurotransmitters are reabsorbed by the presynaptic neuron after transmission.

Nodes of Ranvier

The gaps between the myelin sheath that facilitate faster transmission of action potential.