Introduction to Neuroscience and Neural Communication

Vocabulary flashcards covering cellular neurobiology, signal transmission, neurotransmitter mechanisms, and neural pathways based on lecture notes.

Axon

A long extension of a neuron that carries electrical impulses to terminal branches at its end.

Myelin sheaths

Coverings along an axon that help regulate the speed of electrical signal impulses.

Nodes of Radmir

The spaces in between myelin sheaths that allow for a break or pause in electrical impulses along an axon.

Nociceptors

Pain receptors and pain nerves that respond to substances within the body to send pain impulses.

ALS

A disease (lateral sclerosis) where myelin sheaths degrade or completely disappear, leading to a complete loss of voluntary muscular control.

Neuron

A specialized cell for chemo-electrical or electrochemical signal transmission.

Neuron doctrine

The principle that the nervous system is composed of discrete basic units called neurons that are similar in form and function, with transmission occurring in only one direction.

Transduction

The process of changing or converting one form of energy to another within the body.

Synaptic gap

The microscopic space between the sending neuron and the receiving neuron.

Cerebrospinal fluid

The fluid medium present inside the synaptic gap that contains parts of the immune system and assists in the cleanup or reuptake of neurotransmitters.

Agonist

A molecule that fills a receptor site and activates it by mimicking a neurotransmitter, allowing an impulse signal to continue.

Antagonist

A molecule that blocks a receptor site without activating it, preventing neurotransmitters from binding and stopping the signal.

Nicotinic receptors

Receptors in the body that can be activated by nicotine to function as an agonist for internal hunger-suppressing substances.

Neural networks

Interconnected groups of discrete neurons formed over time and experience, allowing for concepts such as muscle memory.

Serotonin pathways

Networks of neurons that communicate with serotonin to help regulate mood, including feelings of joy and sadness.

Dopamine pathways

Networks of neurons responsible for focusing attention and controlling movement, dysregulation of which is linked to conditions like Parkinson's disease.