Neuroscience Concepts

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions about neurotransmitters, brain structures, and functions based on the lecture notes.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.

GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid)

A major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, it reduces anxiety and promotes sleep.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter that increases movement, reward, mood, and learning.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter linked to sleep and mood regulation, low levels are associated with depression.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter that promotes memory and skeletal muscle action.

Glutamate

A major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, it plays a key role in learning and memory.

Norepinephrine

A neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood and alertness; low levels are linked to depression.

Endorphins

Natural opiates produced by the brain that reduce pain and promote feelings of pleasure.

Hindbrain

The part of the brain that includes the medulla and pons, responsible for automatic functions.

Midbrain

A region of the brain associated with processing sensory information and controlling movement.

Forebrain

The largest part of the brain, responsible for complex behaviors, emotions, and cognitive functions.

Cerebellum

Part of the hindbrain that coordinates movement and motor learning.

Thalamus

A part of the forebrain that relays sensory messages to higher centers of the brain.

Hypothalamus

A part of the brain that regulates body temperature, emotional responses, and controls the pituitary gland.

Cerebrum

The largest part of the brain, involved in thinking, perceiving, and voluntary movement.

Frontal Lobe

The part of the brain associated with executive functions such as reasoning, planning, and motor control.

Parietal Lobe

The brain lobe that processes body sensations and is involved in sensory attention.

Temporal Lobe

The lobe responsible for hearing, language processing, and memory.

Occipital Lobe

The rear lobe of the brain responsible for vision.

Corpus Callosum

A band of neural fibers connecting the left and right cerebral hemispheres.

Prefrontal Cortex

The part of the frontal lobe that is involved in executive functions, such as reasoning and planning.