excitatory vs inhibitory neurotransmitters

Excitatory Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters that generally increase the likelihood of a neuron firing, such as glutamate.

Inhibitory Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters that generally decrease the likelihood of a neuron firing, such as GABA.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

A disease that damages neurons by affecting the myelin sheath, disrupting electrical impulse transmission.

Myasthenia Gravis (MG)

An autoimmune disorder that impairs communication between neurons and muscles due to an attack on acetylcholine.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The part of the nervous system that includes the brain and spinal cord, serving as the control center of the body.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The network of sensory and motor neurons that connects the CNS to the rest of the body.

Autonomic Nervous System

A division of the PNS that controls involuntary functions such as breathing and heartbeat.

Sympathetic Nervous System

A branch of the autonomic nervous system that physically arouses the body, preparing it for "fight or flight" responses.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

A branch of the autonomic nervous system that calms the body, promoting "rest and digest" functions.

Somatic Nervous System

The part of the nervous system that controls voluntary movements, such as running and jumping.

Sensory Neurons

Neurons that carry incoming messages from sense receptors to the CNS.

Interneurons

Neurons located only in the CNS that act as messengers between sensory and motor neurons.

Motor Neurons

Neurons that carry outgoing information from the CNS to the PNS and muscles.

Reflex Arc

A neural pathway that demonstrates how sensory neurons, motor neurons, and interneurons work together to respond to stimuli.