Neuronal Communication and Action Potentials

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to neuronal communication and action potentials based on the lecture notes.

Ion

An atom or molecule with a net electrical charge due to the loss or gain of one or more electrons.

Cation

A positively charged ion.

Anion

A negatively charged ion.

Resting Potential

The electrical potential of a neuron at rest, approximately -70 mV.

Action Potential

A rapid change in voltage across a neural membrane that allows communication between neurons.

Depolarization

The reduction in the negative charge inside the neuron, making it less negative.

Hyperpolarization

The increase in the negative charge inside the neuron, making it more negative.

Graded Potential

A small change in membrane potential that may or may not lead to an action potential.

Sodium-Potassium Pump

A membrane protein that uses ATP to transport sodium out of the cell and potassium into the cell.

Saltatory Conduction

The rapid transmission of impulses along a myelinated axon, where action potentials jump between nodes of Ranvier.

Neurotransmitter

Chemical messengers that transmit signals across the synaptic cleft from one neuron to another.

Presynaptic Neuron

The neuron that sends the neurotransmitter signal.

Postsynaptic Neuron

The neuron that receives the neurotransmitter signal.

Synaptic Cleft

The space between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons.

Metabotropic Receptor

A type of neurotransmitter receptor that, when activated, leads to a series of cellular changes, often slower than ionotropic receptors.

Calmodulin

A protein that binds calcium and is involved in various cellular processes, including neurotransmitter release.

Habituation

A simple form of learning where repeated exposure to a stimulus results in decreased response.

Sensitization

An increased response to a stimulus after an intense or noxious stimulus.

Glial Cells

Non-neuronal cells in the nervous system that provide support and protection for neurons.

Phospholipid Bilayer

A double layer of phospholipids that makes up the cell membrane, characterized by hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails.