Neurotransmitters and the synapse

synapse

the site where neurotransmission occurs

synaptic transmission

the chemical conveyance of neural information between two neurons across a neural synapse

reuptake

neurotransmitter that does not bind to receptors is absorbed back into the terminal buttons of the presynaptic neuron

Excitatory

Increases the likelihood of the postsynaptic neuron firing an action potential

Inhibitory

Decreases the likelihood of the postsynaptic neuron firing an action potential.

Glutamate

main excitatory neurotransmitter in the nervous system

role of glutamate

• role in learning and memory to strengthen synaptic connections between neurons that are repeatedly activated during learning.

• enables synaptic plasticity

gamma amino butyric acid (GABA)

main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the nervous system

role of GABA

• regulating postsynaptic activation in neural pathways by preventing overexcitation of neurons.

• reduces anxiety by inhibiting excitatory neural signals that contribute to it

• inhibiting uncontrolled firing of action potentials preventing seizures.

wording for glutamate questions

Glutamate,  the main excitartory neurotransmitter in the nervous system is released from the presynaptic neuron into the synaptic gap. Glutamate travels across the gap and binds to complementary receptor sites on the post-synaptic neuron. Glutamate increases the likelihood of the postsynaptic neuron firing an action potential. After binding glutamate passes on the signal to keep firing the post-synaptic neuron meaning that glutamate signals…

wording for GABA questions

GABA,  the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the nervous system is released from the presynaptic neuron into the synaptic gap. GABA travels across the gap and binds to complementary receptor sites on the post synaptic neuron GABA decreases the likelihood of the postsynaptic neuron firing an action potential. After binding GABA passes on the signal to decrease or cease firing of the post-synaptic neuron. Meaning that GABA signals…