Neurological Systems: Comprehensive Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminology related to neurological systems, specifically focusing on neurotransmitters, pain pathways, and brain structure functions.

Neuron

The signaling unit of the nervous system, consisting of a soma, dendrites, and an axon.

Synapse

The junction between two neurons where signaling occurs via neurotransmitter release.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Composed of the brain and spinal cord, responsible for processing and relaying information.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The part of the nervous system outside the CNS, consisting of nerves and ganglia.

Nociception

The sensory nervous system's process of encoding and processing painful stimuli.

Neurotransmitter

Chemical messengers released at synapses that transmit signals across nerve cells.

Action Potential

A rapid rise and subsequent fall in voltage or electrical charge across a cellular membrane.

Glutamate

The most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, playing a key role in synaptic plasticity.

GABA (γ-Aminobutyric Acid)

The major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mature CNS, responsible for reducing neuronal excitability.

Endocannabinoids

Naturally occurring compounds in the body that bind to cannabinoid receptors, influencing various physiological processes.

Nociceptor

Specialized sensory receptors that respond to potentially damaging stimuli by sending signals to the spinal cord and brain.

Allodynia

Pain due to a stimulus that does not typically provoke pain; a symptom of neuropathic pain.

Opioid Receptors

G-protein coupled receptors that mediate the effects of endogenous and exogenous opioids in the CNS.

Dopamine

A biogenic amine neurotransmitter involved in reward, motivation, and motor control.

Cox Inhibitors

Medications that inhibit cyclooxygenase enzymes involved in the production of inflammatory eicosanoids.

Prostaglandins

Eicosanoids that mediate inflammatory responses including pain, fever, and regulation of blood flow.

Antinociception

The process of blocking the detection of a painful or injurious stimulus.

Hyperalgesia

Increased sensitivity to pain, often resulting from tissue injury or inflammation.

Thalamus

A relay station in the brain that processes and transmits sensory information to the cerebral cortex.

Hypothalamus

A brain region that regulates autonomic functions and links the nervous system to the endocrine system.

Cerebellum

A brain region that coordinates voluntary movements and maintains posture and balance.

Chain Reaction (in Neurotransmission)

The process whereby neurotransmitter release leads to subsequent downstream signaling in neuron pathways.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Antidepressants that increase serotonin levels by inhibiting its reabsorption in the brain.

Benzodiazepines

A class of drugs that enhance GABA-A receptor signaling, resulting in sedation and anxiolytic effects.