Neurons, Ligands, Receptors and Mode of Action

Vocabulary flashcards covering the cholinergic and adrenergic systems, including their ligands, receptor subtypes, target organs, and modes of action.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

The neurotransmitter ligand for the cholinergic system.

NE/EPI

Norephinephrine and Epinephrine; the ligands that bind to adrenergic receptors.

Nicotinic Receptors

Excitatory (EX) cholinergic receptors classified into Nn (neuron) and Nm (muscle) subtypes that act directly via ion channels.

Muscarinic Receptors (M1 - M5)

Cholinergic receptors with excitatory or inhibitory (EX/IN) responses that act indirectly via second messengers.

Nicotinic Mode of Action

Direct action that functions by opening an ion channel.

Muscarinic Mode of Action

Indirect action that functions through a second messenger.

A1 Receptor

An alpha adrenergic receptor found on blood vessels that produces an excitatory (EX) effect.

A2 Receptor

An alpha adrenergic receptor found on blood vessels that produces an inhibitory (IN) effect.

B1 Receptor

A beta adrenergic receptor found in the heart that produces an excitatory (EX) effect.

B2 Receptor

A beta adrenergic receptor found in the lungs that produces an inhibitory (IN) effect.

B3 Receptor

A beta adrenergic receptor found in adipose tissue that produces an excitatory (EX) effect.

Adrenergic Mode of Action

Indirect action that acts through a second messenger in the cell.