Glutamatergic Transmission in Neuroscience

These flashcards cover essential terms and concepts related to glutamatergic transmission and neurotransmitter systems discussed in the lecture.

Glutamatergic System

The primary excitatory neurotransmitter system in the brain responsible for fast synaptic transmission.

Ionotropic Receptors

Receptors that form ion channels that open in response to the binding of neurotransmitters.

AMPA Receptors

A type of ionotropic glutamate receptor that mediates fast synaptic transmission.

NMDA Receptors

A type of ionotropic glutamate receptor that is involved in synaptic plasticity and memory function.

Metabotropic Receptors

G-protein coupled receptors that modulate synaptic transmission indirectly and are slower than ionotropic receptors.

Glutamate Synthesis

The process by which glutamate is produced from glutamine in neurons and glial cells.

Excitatory Postsynaptic Potential (EPSP)

A postsynaptic potential that makes the neuron more likely to fire an action potential.

Synaptic Plasticity

The ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken over time, in response to increases or decreases in activity.

GABAergic System

The neurotransmitter system primarily using GABA, which mediates inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain.

Glycine

An amino acid that acts as a co-agonist at NMDA receptors and is important for the regulation of synaptic transmission.