Review for Exam 3 PSYC 255

A collection of vocabulary flashcards derived from lecture notes for PSYC 255 covering key concepts in neuroscience, neurotransmitters, and their pharmacological effects.

Neurotransmitter

A chemical substance that transmits signals across a synapse between neurons.

Classical neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters that include amino acids, monoamines, acetylcholine, neuropeptides, lipid neurotransmitters, and gas neurotransmitters.

Acetylcholine synthesis pathway

The process of creating acetylcholine, including the specific enzymes involved.

Voltage-gated calcium channels

Proteins that open in response to voltage changes, allowing calcium ions to enter the cell, playing a key role in neurotransmitter release.

Ionotropic receptors

Receptors that form ion channels and mediate fast synaptic transmission.

EPSP

Excitatory Postsynaptic Potential, caused by the influx of positive ions through ionotropic receptors.

IPSP

Inhibitory Postsynaptic Potential, caused by the influx of negative ions or efflux of positive ions.

G-protein

A protein that acts as a molecular switch to communicate signals from metabotropic receptors to target neurons.

Hormone

A chemical messenger produced in the body that regulates physiological processes and is secreted into the bloodstream.

Denervation super sensitivity

The increased sensitivity of neurons to neurotransmitters following the loss of input from that neurotransmitter system.

Lock-and-key model

A model used to describe how neurotransmitter molecules fit into their specific receptors.

Master gland

The anterior pituitary gland, called this because it regulates other endocrine glands.

Opioid analgesic

A class of drugs that relieve pain by acting on the opioid receptors in the brain.

Antagonist

A substance that blocks or dampens the action of neurotransmitters.

Agonist

A substance that activates receptors to produce a biological response.

Schizophrenia

A mental disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, and disordered thinking.

Behavioral effects of SSRIs

SSRIs often have fewer side effects than MAOIs and tricyclic antidepressants due to their specific action on serotonin reuptake.

MAOIs

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors, a class of antidepressants that inhibit the enzyme responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters like serotonin.

Tricyclic antidepressants

A class of antidepressants that work by inhibiting the reuptake of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and serotonin.

Cocaine

A powerful stimulant drug that acts as a local anesthetic and increases levels of dopamine in the brain.

Amphetamine

A potent stimulant drug that increases the release of dopamine and norepinephrine, often leading to increased alertness and energy.

Methadone

A long-acting opioid agonist used in the treatment of opioid dependency and as a pain reliever.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter that plays a significant role in reward, motivation, and motor control.

Norepinephrine

A neurotransmitter involved in arousal and alertness, linked to the body's 'fight or flight' response.

Neuropeptide

A type of neurotransmitter that consists of short chains of amino acids and modulates the action of other neurotransmitters.