Neurotransmitters and Subcortical Structures

presynaptic neuron

axon

postsynaptic neuron

dendrites

post synaptic potential

the change in the membrane potential of a neuron that has received stimulation from another neuron

resting potential

Neuron's stable, negative charge when inactive

synaptic gap/cleft

Tiny space between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons

neurotransmitters

Chemicals that transmit signals between neurons

reuptake

Process of recycling neurotransmitters back into the neuron

serotonin

Neurotransmitter associated with happiness, low levels linked to depression

SSRI

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, used to treat depression

dopamine

Neurotransmitter, excess linked to schizophrenia, deficiency linked to Parkinson's disease

acetylcholine

Neurotransmitter that aids in movement

GABA

Neurotransmitter related to anxiety, alcohol affects GABA levels

endorphins

Natural pain killers produced by the body

norepinephrine

Neurotransmitter associated with depression, epinephrine is adrenaline

pons

sleep and dreams/arousal

Cerebrum

grey matter (wrinkles)

cerebral cortex

Outer layer of the brain responsible for planning, problem solving, decision making

Cerebellum

Balance and coordination (cere-balance)

Thalamus

all sensory info goes here except smell

Hypothalamus

feeding,fighting,fleeing,mating

pituitary gland

controls other glands

Amygdala

emotion and aggression (anger and fear)

Hippocampus

learning and memory