CHAPTER 3 - Neuron Communication (SLIDES 18-23N)

Acetylcholine (Ach)

A common neurotransmitter found throughout the brain and body that carries signals between nerve cells at all neuromuscular junctions.

Glutamate

An excitatory neurotransmitter found throughout the brain that acts a s a chemical messenger, transmitting signals between neurons.

GABA

An Inhibitory chemical messenger in the brain that slows down nerve activity and produces calming effect.

Alcohol and benzodiazepine are ______.

agonists

Monoamines

Class of neurotransmitters derived from single amino acids

Monoamines EXAMPLES

• Dopamine

• norepinephrine

• epinephrine

• serotonin

• histamines

Catecholamine synthesis pathway (6 steps PTLDNE)

Dopamine (DA)

A neurotransmitter and hormone, that plays a role in Motivation, smooth motor movement, attention, addiction

Dopamine (DA) agonists

cocaine, amphetamine

Dopamine (DA) antagonist

Antipsychotics

Norepinephrine (NE)

A neurotransmitter more common in the CNS that plays a crucial role in the body's response to stress and danger. (Arousal, attention, mood, fight or flight)

Epinephrine (E)

Also known as adreneline is a hormone/nuerotransmitter, more common in the PNS, plays a role in our arousal, sympathetic nervous system activity, fight or flight.

Serotonin (5-HT)

A crucial neurotransmitter (a chemical messenger) that plays a significant role in regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and pain.

Serotonin Agonists

• Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

• Hallucinogens

Neuropeptides

Protein molecule neurotransmitters that regulate many physiological processes

Neuropeptides Agonists

Heroin, morphine, codeine, oxycontin, fentanyl, etc

Neuropeptides Antagonism

Naloxone (Narcan)

Which neurotransmitter is found at every neuromuscular junction?

1. Epinephrine

2. Dopamine

3. Norepinephrine

4. Acetylcholine

4. Acetylcholine

1. The reticular activating system releases primarily _________ whereas the raphe nucleus releases primarily _______.

   1. Norepinephrine; epinephrine

   2. Norepinephrine; serotonin

   3. Serotonin; norepinephrine

   4. Epinephrine; serotonin

2. Norepinephrine; serotonin