Neurochemistry and Signal Transduction

These flashcards cover key concepts from neurochemistry and signal transduction, focusing on neurotransmitter systems, enzyme functions, and cellular signaling mechanisms.

Dopaminergic Neurons

Neurons that synthesize dopamine, located in the substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area.

Adrenergic Neurons

Neurons that synthesize norepinephrine, typically found in the locus coeruleus.

Tyrosine Hydroxylase

An enzyme required for the synthesis of dopamine.

Dopa Decarboxylase

An enzyme that converts L-Dopa to dopamine.

Dopamine Beta Hydroxylase

An enzyme that converts dopamine to norepinephrine.

Monoamine Oxidase (MAO)

An enzyme that metabolizes neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine into inactive compounds.

Catechol O-Methyltransferase (COMT)

An enzyme that degrades dopamine and norepinephrine into inactive compounds.

Second Messengers

Intracellular signaling molecules, such as cyclic AMP and calcium, that transmit signals from receptors to target molecules inside the cell.

Calmodulin

A calcium-binding messenger protein that mediates the effects of calcium ions on various cellular processes.

Protein Kinases

Enzymes that add phosphate groups to proteins, typically activating them.

Protein Phosphatases

Enzymes that remove phosphate groups from proteins, usually deactivating them.

Endocannabinoids

Endogenous cannabinoids that act as signaling molecules in the brain.

G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs)

Receptors that activate intracellular signaling pathways via G-proteins.

Phosphorylation

The process of adding a phosphate group to a molecule, typically a protein, to regulate its activity.

Glutamate Receptors

Postsynaptic receptors for glutamate, including AMPA, NMDA, and metabotropic receptors.

AMPAR (AMPA Receptor)

An ionotropic receptor that mediates fast synaptic transmission in the central nervous system.

NMDAR (NMDA Receptor)

An ionotropic glutamate receptor that is important for synaptic plasticity and memory function.

Biochemical Cascade

A series of biochemical events wherein an initial signal is amplified through a series of kinase activations.

Voltage Gated Calcium Channels

Channels that open in response to membrane depolarization, allowing calcium ions to enter the cell.

Inhibitory Synapses

Synapses that decrease the likelihood of a neuron firing an action potential.