2020 L2 - Ion-coupled receptors and the nervous system

Action Potential

A rapid change in membrane potential that propagates along the neuron, allowing for quick information transfer.

Neurotransmitters

Chemically diverse substances responsible for signal transduction between neurons.

Ionic Movements

The movement of charged atoms (ions) across cell membranes that contributes to the physiology of action potentials.

Voltage-gated Channels

Ion channels that open or close in response to changes in membrane potential.

Ligand-gated Channels

Ion channels that open in response to the binding of a chemical messenger (ligand).

Dendrites

Extensions of the neuron that receive signals from other neurons.

Myelin Sheath

A protective layer around axons that speeds up signal transmission.

Saltatory Conduction

The process by which action potentials jump from one node of Ranvier to another along myelinated axons.

Synapse

The junction between two neurons where neurotransmitters are released.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neurotransmitter involved in muscle contraction and memory function.

NMDA Receptors

A type of glutamate receptor important for synaptic plasticity and memory.

Excitotoxicity

Cell death caused by excessive stimulation by neurotransmitters leading to toxic levels.

Glutamate

The major excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.

Calcium Ions (Ca2+)

Important ions involved in neurotransmitter release and signal transduction.

Perampanel

An AMPA receptor antagonist used in the treatment of epilepsy.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

A class of drugs used to treat depression by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.

Substantia Nigra

A brain region significantly affected in Parkinson's disease, related to dopamine production.

Neuron

A nerve cell that transmits signals in the nervous system.

G-protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs)

A large family of receptors that activate intracellular signaling pathways upon ligand binding.

Cocaine

A stimulant drug that increases dopamine levels by inhibiting its reuptake.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter important for motor control, reward, and motivation.

Amphetamine

A class of drugs that increase concentrations of neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation, found in the brain, gut, and platelets.

Excitatory and Inhibitory Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters that either increase (excitatory) or decrease (inhibitory) the likelihood of a neuron firing.