Biopsychology

Neuron

brain cells that receives information

Semipermeable membrane

allows smaller molecules or molecules without an electrical charge to pass through it, while stopping larger or highly charged molecules

Cell body

metabolic center of the neuron

Dendrites

receive messages from other cells

Axon

long "cable" that transmits signals

Terminal buttons

knoblike structures that branch out from an axon that store neurotransmitters

Myelin sheath

covers the axon of some neurons and helps speed neural impulses

Synapse

Gap between neurons

Synaptic cleft

gap where neurotransmitters are released

Receptor

proteins neurotransmitters attach too on the cell surface

Why do receptors have variation?

To match neurotransmitters, like enzymes

Edgar Adrian

single cell recording of sensory neurons

Resting potential

the state of the neuron when not firing a neural impulse (-70mV)

Action potential

short charge that travels down axon

Neuronal membrane

separates extracellular and intracellular fluids

Membrane potential

voltage across a membrane

Acetylcholine

involved in:

Muscle action
Memory

potential effect:

Increased arousal,
Enhanced cognition

Beta-endorphin

involved in:

Pain
Pleasure

potential effect:

Decreased anxiety
Decreased tension

Dopamine

involved in:

Mood
Sleep
Learning

potential effect:

Increased pleasure
Suppressed appetite

Gamma

involved in:

Brain function
Sleep

potential effect:

Decreased anxiety
Decreased tension

Glutamate

involved in:

Memory
Learning

potential effect:

Increased learning
Enhanced memory

Norepinephrine

involved in:

Heart
Intestines
Alertness

potential effect:

Increased arousal,
Suppressed appetite

Serotonin

involved in:

Mood
Sleep

potential effect:

Modulated mood
Suppressed appetite