AP Psychology - 1.7

Phrenology

A popular early 1800s practice that studied bumps on the skull to determine mental abilities and character traits.

Localization of Function

The concept that different brain regions are responsible for specific functions.

Neurons

Neural cells designed to share information electrochemically with other neurons.

Cell Body (Soma)

The nucleus and life support center of a neuron.

Dendrites

Fibers that receive and integrate information, directing it toward the cell body.

Axon

The single lengthy fiber of a neuron that transmits messages to other neurons.

Myelin

A fatty tissue layer that insulates axons and speeds up neural impulses.

Multiple Sclerosis

A condition resulting from the degeneration of the myelin sheath, leading to slowed communication to muscles and loss of muscle control.

Glial Cells

Support cells that provide structure, insulation, communication, and clean up neurotransmitters in the nervous system.

Action Potential

An electrical impulse that a neuron sends down its axon when stimulated.

Excitatory Signals

Neural signals that promote the generation of an action potential.

Inhibitory Signals

Neural signals that regulate the activation of excitatory signals.

Threshold

The minimum intensity at which excitatory signals must exceed inhibitory signals to trigger an action potential.

Synapse

The gap or junction between two neurons where neurotransmitters are released.

Neurotransmitters (NTs)

Specialized biochemical messages that transmit signals across the synapse.

Reuptake

The process of a neurotransmitter being reabsorbed by the sending neuron.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neurotransmitter involved in muscle control and memory; linked to Myasthenia gravis when receptor sites are blocked.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter associated with reward, pleasure, emotion, motor behavior, and attention; imbalances can lead to Parkinson's disease or schizophrenia.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter that regulates sleep, mood, and appetite; low levels are linked to depression.

Norepinephrine

A neurotransmitter involved in alertness and the "Fight or Flight" response.

Endorphins

Neurotransmitters that have morphine-like effects, providing pain relief and pleasure.

Substance P

A neurotransmitter that transmits pain signals.

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid)

An inhibitory neurotransmitter that promotes tranquility; low levels are associated with seizures and insomnia.

Glutamate

A neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory; excess can lead to impulsive behavior and overstimulation of the brain.

Agonist

A molecule that mimics or increases a neurotransmitter's action.

Antagonist

A molecule that inhibits or blocks a neurotransmitter's action.

Reuptake Inhibitors

Molecules that block the reabsorption of neurotransmitters, leading to increased action potential.