4 - Neuropeptides and Neurotransmitters

synapses

located at the END of an axon, sites where transmission of the action potential "message" is relayed to effector cells

dendrites

Branchlike parts of a neuron that are specialized to receive information.

cell body

Largest part of a typical neuron; contains the nucleus, integrates incoming signals and generates outgoing signal to axon

axon

the extension of a neuron, ending in branching terminal fibers, through which messages pass to other neurons or to muscles or glands

neuromuscular junction

synapse to muscle cell signal

neuroglandular synapses

synapse to gland (endocrine) cells

neuropeptides = prolonged

neurotransmitters = short acting

main difference between neuropeptide and neurotransmitters

neuropeptide

act on multiple receptor proteins, aka GPCRs (G-Protein-coupled receptors) performing prolonged action

opioid peptides

type of neuropeptide, controls pain modulation and reward

pituitary peptides

type of neuropeptide, controls hormonal control

gut-brain peptides

type of neuropeptide, regulates appetite and digestion

tachykinins

type of neuropeptide, responsible for sensory processing and pain transmission

insulin like peptides

type of neuropeptides, controls metabolism regulation

neurotransmitters

chemical messengers that cross the synaptic gaps between neurons, producing short-term response

exitatory

type of neurotransmitters, increasing likelihood of action potential (stronger signal response)

inhibitory

type of neurotransmitter, decreasing the likelihood of action potential

modulatory

type of neurotransmitter, influences multiple neurons