Exocytosis beta

Resting State

Affects the entire neuron where the inside of the neuron is more negative compared to the outside, leading to a stable environment for potential action, typically around -70mV.

EPSP (Excitatory Postsynaptic Potential)

Occurs in dendrites and cell bodies, characterized by depolarization, decremental flow, and graded responses when an excitatory neurotransmitter binds to its receptor and sodium channels open.

Impulse

Rapid change in membrane potential occurring in axons; in myelinated axons, saltatory conduction allows impulses to jump between nodes of Ranvier, increasing conduction speed.

Synapses

Junctions between neurons where communication occurs, involving a sending neuron (presynaptic), calcium ions (Ca++), receptor sites, and exocytosis of neurotransmitters.

Neurotransmitter reuptake

Process by which neurotransmitters are reabsorbed by the presynaptic neuron.

AChE (Acetylcholinesterase)

Enzyme that hydrolyzes acetylcholine, terminating its action by breaking it down into acetate and choline.

IPSP (Inhibitory Postsynaptic Potentials)

Hyperpolarization leading to a shift in membrane potential towards -80mV, involving GABA, chloride influx, and potassium efflux.

Agonists

Substances that increase neurotransmitter activity, such as enhancing release or mimicking neurotransmitter action.

Antagonists

Substances that decrease neurotransmitter activity by blocking receptor action or release.

L-Dopa

Agonist used in treating Parkinson's disease by increasing dopamine levels in the brain.

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)

Agonists that increase synaptic serotonin by blocking its reuptake.

Glutamate and GABA

Neurotransmitters involved in excitatory and inhibitory signaling where anticonvulsants work by blocking glutamate receptors and enhancing GABA sensitivity.

Chloride ion regulation

Mechanism involved in drug effects that may significantly decrease brain activity, leading to sedation.

Potassium ion regulation

Mechanism involved in drug effects that may increase brain activity, enhancing alertness.