Neuroscience: Synaptic Transmission and Neuronal Processing-4

Flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture on synaptic transmission and neuronal processing.

Synaptic Signal

The process that occurs when an action potential arrives at the axon terminal, initiating neurotransmitter release.

Action Potential

A temporary reversal of the electrical potential across the membrane of a neuron that propagates along the axon.

Calcium Channels

Voltage-gated channels in the axon terminal that open to allow calcium ions to enter, triggering neurotransmitter release.

Neurotransmitter

Chemicals that transmit signals across the synaptic cleft, exemplified by acetylcholine.

Exocytosis

The process through which synaptic vesicles release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft.

Synaptic Cleft

The gap between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons where neurotransmitters diffuse.

Graded Potential

A change in membrane potential that can vary in size and leads to the generation of an action potential at the axon hillock.

EPSP (Excitatory Postsynaptic Potential)

A graded potential that makes a neuron more likely to fire an action potential.

IPSP (Inhibitory Postsynaptic Potential)

A graded potential that makes a neuron less likely to fire an action potential.

Temporal Summation

The process where multiple signals are received in rapid succession, leading to an increased probability of reaching the threshold for action potential generation.

Spatial Summation

The process whereby simultaneous activation of multiple presynaptic terminals causes the postsynaptic neuron to reach the threshold.

Presynaptic Inhibition

When one neuron decreases the release of neurotransmitters from another neuron, lowering the likelihood of an action potential.

Long Term Potentiation (LTP)

A lasting increase in synaptic strength as a result of repeated stimulation, associated with learning and memory.

Neurotransmitter Classes

Various groups of neurotransmitters categorized by their chemical structure and function including acetylcholine, biogenic amines, amino acids, peptides, purines, gases, and lipids.

GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)

An inhibitory neurotransmitter that hyperpolarizes the target neuron, reducing the likelihood of action potentials.

Channel Linked Receptors

Receptors that are ligand-gated ion channels; their activation leads to rapid synaptic transmission.

G-protein Linked Receptors

Receptors that activate second messengers, leading to slower, prolonged responses in the postsynaptic cell.

Neural Integration

The process of combining information from multiple sources, allowing for complex behaviors and functions.

Diverging Circuit

A neural circuit that amplifies signals by spreading stimulation across many pathways.

Converging Circuit

A neural circuit that brings multiple signals into a single output, concentrating information.

Reverberating Circuit

A circuit in which signals are cycled through a chain of neurons, enabling rhythmic activities.

Parallel Processing

Simultaneous stimulation of multiple pathways, important for complex and higher-level mental functions.