Neurotransmitters and Pharmacology Study Guide

These flashcards are designed to help students review key concepts and details about neurotransmitters and their functions, as well as pharmacology principles covered in the lecture notes.

What are the primary functions of Glutamate in the CNS?

Learning and memory; it is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter.

Where is GABA primarily produced?

Central Nervous System (CNS).

What type of receptors does Acetylcholine bind to?

It binds to nicotinic receptors (ionotropic) at the neuromuscular junction and muscarinic receptors (metabotropic) in the PNS and CNS.

Excess of which neurotransmitter is associated with psychosis such as schizophrenia?

Dopamine.

What happens when there is too much GABA in the brain?

It can lead to sedation and fatigue.

What is the difference between ionotropic and metabotropic receptors?

Ionotropic receptors allow ions to flow directly through the channel quickly, while metabotropic receptors require G-proteins and cause slower responses.

What are the signs of dehydration?

Low blood pressure/volume and impaired cellular function.

What does the renin-angiotensin pathway do?

It responds to osmotic and hypovolemic thirst by releasing ADH, causing kidneys to reduce urine output and retain sodium.

How does exercise affect neurotropic factors in the body?

Exercise increases blood flow, neurotropic factors, and synaptic plasticity.

What is the effect of consuming too much fructose?

It can lead to decreased insulin sensitivity, increased inflammation, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

How does increased leptin affect hunger signaling in the arcuate nucleus?

Leptin inhibits NPY/AgRP neurons, reducing hunger signaling.

How are neurotransmitters typically removed from the synapse?

Through reuptake into the presynaptic neuron or by enzyme breakdown in the synapse.

What is an agonist in pharmacology?

A substance that boosts the activity of a neurotransmitter or receptor.

What is the therapeutic index (TI)?

TI is calculated as LD50/ED50, indicating the safety margin of a drug.

What part of the brain processes temperature signals?

The preoptic area of the hypothalamus.

Where are catecholamines produced, and what are their main functions?

Produced in the CNS, particularly by the VTA; they are involved in movement, attention, and arousal.

What roles do oxytocin and vasopressin play in the body?

Oxytocin is involved in social bonding and maternal care, while vasopressin regulates water retention and social behaviors.

How does alcohol interact with GABA receptors?

Alcohol increases GABA binding, enhancing its inhibitory effects.

What effect does too little serotonin have on a person?

It can lead to depression and anxiety.

What phases of metabolism does the pancreas engage in?

It produces glucagon during the fasting phase and secretes insulin during the absorption phase.

What is the function of aldosterone in the renin-angiotensin system?

Aldosterone tells the body to conserve salt, helping to regulate blood pressure.

What is the main content of the short-term energy reservoir in the body?

Glycogen stored in the liver and muscles.

How do stimulants affect neurotransmitters in the brain?

Stimulants enhance alertness and energy, affecting neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine.

How does the body respond to hypovolemic thirst?

The body detects low blood volume and pressure, triggering hormonal responses to increase water retention.

What is the definition of homeostasis?

A state where set points for various physiological parameters remain constant.

What happens to cells in a hypertonic solution?

Cells shrink as water moves out of them due to the high concentration of solutes outside.

What does pharmacodynamics study?

It examines the effects of drugs and how they interact with neurotransmitters and receptors.

What is the primary function of the vagus nerve?

It connects the brain to the gut and the enteric nervous system (ENS).

What neurotransmitter can cause neurotoxicity if levels are too high?

Glutamate.

Which type of fat is liquid at room temperature?

Unsaturated fats.

What receptors do benzodiazepines target?

They target GABAa receptors, enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission.

How does the body store excess glucose?

Excess glucose is converted to fat in adipose tissue or stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles.