Brain Communication Mechanisms

Neurons

Cells that communicate through electrical and chemical signals

Electrochemical potential

The charge difference inside and outside a cell

Resting membrane potential

The -70mV charge difference across a cell membrane at rest

Ion channels

Pores in the cell membrane allowing ion movement

Selective permeability

Property of the cell membrane allowing only specific substances to pass

Passive transport

Movement of molecules from high to low concentration without energy

Active transport

Energy-requiring movement of molecules against concentration gradient

Leak channels

Ion channels randomly opening and closing

Diffusion

Passive movement of substances from high to low concentration

Ion channels

Pores in the cell membrane allowing ion movement

Voltage-gated ion channels

Channels opening in response to changes in ion distribution

Mechanically-gated ion channels

Channels opened by physical force

Ligand-gated ion channels

Channels opened by specific molecules binding

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals allowing neuron communication

Synaptic transmission

Process of signal transfer between neurons

Excitatory neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters causing more action potentials

Inhibitory neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters suppressing action potentials

Acetylcholine (ACh)

Neurotransmitter involved in muscle movement and memory

Gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA)

Main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain

Dopamine

Neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and reward

Serotonin

Neurotransmitter affecting mood, appetite, and sleep

Glutamate

Primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain

Sodium-potassium pump

Active transporter maintaining cell potential

Action potential

Electrical impulse for neuron communication