How Do Neurons Communicate and Adapt?

Flashcards covering key concepts related to neuron communication and adaptation, focusing on neurotransmitters, synapses, and types of learning.

Neurotransmitter

A chemical released by a neuron that can have excitatory or inhibitory effects on a target cell.

Presynaptic Membrane

The membrane at the axon terminal where the action potential terminates to release the chemical message.

Postsynaptic Membrane

The membrane that receives the chemical message, which can result in excitatory or inhibitory postsynaptic potentials.

Synaptic Cleft

The small gap between the presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes where neurotransmitters travel.

EPSP (Excitatory Postsynaptic Potential)

A temporary increase in postsynaptic membrane potential that makes the postsynaptic neuron more likely to fire an action potential.

IPSP (Inhibitory Postsynaptic Potential)

A temporary decrease in postsynaptic membrane potential that makes the postsynaptic neuron less likely to fire an action potential.

Chemical Synapse

A type of synapse where neurotransmitters are released to transmit signals between neurons.

Action Potential

An electrical signal that travels down the axon and stimulates the release of neurotransmitters.

Neuroplasticity

The ability of the nervous system to change its structure and function in response to experience.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

The first neurotransmitter discovered, which activates skeletal muscles and can excite or inhibit internal organs.

Epinephrine (EP)

A hormone that mobilizes the body for fight or flight and acts as a neurotransmitter in the CNS.

Norepinephrine (NE)

A neurotransmitter involved in the fight or flight response, increasing heart rate in mammals.

Ionotropic Receptor

A receptor that, when activated, opens a pore to allow ion flow, rapidly changing membrane voltage.

Metabotropic Receptor

A receptor that, when activated, indirectly produces changes in ion channels or metabolic activity without a pore.

Autoreceptor

A receptor located on the presynaptic neuron that responds to the neurotransmitter released by that neuron.

Habituation

A learning process where a response to a stimulus weakens with repeated presentations of that stimulus.

Sensitization

A learning process where a response to a stimulus strengthens with repeated presentations due to novelty or intensity.

Hebb's Rule

A principle that states that synaptic strength increases through repeated and persistent stimulation of one neuron by another.

Neuropeptide

A type of neurotransmitter that acts slowly and regulates a range of functions such as pain and bonding.