Inhibitory Transmission in Cellular Neuroscience

These vocabulary flashcards focus on key terms and definitions related to inhibitory transmission in cellular neuroscience.

GABAergic System

System in the central nervous system that uses Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) as a neurotransmitter.

GABA

Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid, the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain.

GABAA Receptor

An ionotropic receptor that mediates fast synaptic inhibition through the influx of Cl- ions.

GABAB Receptor

A metabotropic receptor that activates G-proteins to mediate slow synaptic inhibition.

Glycine

An amino acid neurotransmitter that acts as an inhibitory transmitter in the spinal cord.

Inhibitory Postsynaptic Potential (IPSP)

A hyperpolarization of the postsynaptic membrane potential, making it less likely to fire an action potential.

Synaptic Transmission

The process by which signaling molecules called neurotransmitters are released by a neuron and bind to and activate the receptors on another neuron.

Neurotransmitter Release

The process of vesicles releasing neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft, triggered by a calcium influx.

Glycine Receptors

Chloride channels that mediate glycine’s inhibitory effects in the central nervous system.

GABA Transporters (GAT)

Proteins that facilitate the reuptake of GABA into presynaptic terminals and astrocytes.

Electrophysiological Recording

A technique used to measure the electrical activity of neurons.

Ionotropic Receptors

Receptors that form ion channels and mediate rapid synaptic transmission.

Metabotropic Receptors

Receptors that activate intracellular signaling pathways and modulate synaptic responses.

Strychnine

A potent glycine receptor antagonist that causes convulsions by inhibiting glycine's action.

Gephyrin

A scaffolding protein that anchors glycine receptors at inhibitory synapses.