Chapter 1

Neurotransmitter (NT)

A chemical substance that transmits signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.

Glial Cells

Support cells in the nervous system that surround and insulate neurons, recycle neurotransmitters, and maintain homeostasis.

Action Potential

A temporary reversal of the electrochemical gradient across a neuron's membrane, allowing for the transmission of electrical impulses.

Dendrites

The branched projections of a neuron that receive electrical signals from other neurons.

Synapse

The junction between two neurons or between a neuron and a target cell where neurotransmission occurs.

Excitatory Synapse

A type of synapse that increases the likelihood of the firing action potential in the postsynaptic neuron.

Inhibitory Synapse

A type of synapse that decreases the likelihood of the firing action potential in the postsynaptic neuron.

Ligand-Gated Receptors

Receptors that open in response to binding of a neurotransmitter (ligand) and allow ions to flow and change the cell's membrane potential.

Reuptake Transporters

Proteins that remove neurotransmitters from the synapse, effectively terminating the signal between neurons.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neurotransmitter involved in many functions including muscle movement, memory, and learning.

Monoamines

A class of neurotransmitters that includes dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, known for their roles in mood regulation.

Autonomic Nervous System

The part of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions.

Neuroplasticity

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

Dopaminergic Neurons

Neurons that release dopamine and are involved in reward processing and motor control.

Norepinephrine (NE)

A neurotransmitter and hormone involved in arousal, attention, and response to stress.

Serotonin (5-HT)

A neurotransmitter that contributes to mood regulation, sleep, appetite, and perception of pain.

Executive Functions

Cognitive processes that enable goal-directed behavior, including reasoning, planning, and impulse control.

Limbic System

A complex network in the brain associated with emotion, behavior, motivation, long-term memory, and olfaction.

HPA Axis

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, a central component of the body's response to stress.

Glutamate

The primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, playing a key role in synaptic plasticity and cognitive function.

GABA

The primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, crucial for reducing neuronal excitability.