Synaptic Receptors

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and definitions related to synaptic receptors and their functions.

Ionotropic receptors

Receptors that form ion channels and mediate fast synaptic transmission.

Metabotropic receptors

G-protein-coupled receptors that indirectly influence ion channels through signaling cascades.

Excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP)

A transient depolarization of the postsynaptic membrane caused by the presynaptic release of neurotransmitter.

Inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP)

A transient hyperpolarization of the postsynaptic membrane potential caused by the presynaptic release of neurotransmitter.

GABAergic receptors

Receptors that bind γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and mediate inhibitory neurotransmission.

Dopaminergic receptors

Receptors that bind dopamine and play key roles in reward and motor control.

Ligand-gated ion channels

Channels that open in response to neurotransmitter binding, allowing ions to flow across the membrane.

Endocannabinoid signaling

Retrograde signaling mechanism in which endocannabinoids released from postsynaptic neurons influence presynaptic neurotransmitter release.

Presynaptic autoreceptors

Receptors located on a neuron's axon terminal that respond to the neurotransmitters released by that neuron, often inhibiting further release.

G-Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCR)

Receptors that, when bound by a neurotransmitter, activate intracellular signaling pathways through G-proteins.

EPSP generation

Involves the influx of Na+ ions through transmitter-gated ion channels, leading to depolarization.

IPSP generation

Involves the influx of Cl- ions through transmitter-gated ion channels, leading to hyperpolarization.

Gray's type I synapse

Morphological structure of excitatory synapses characterized by asymmetrical junctions frequently involving glutamate.

Gray's type II synapse

Morphological structure of inhibitory synapses often associated with GABA or glycine, typically symmetric.

Calcium ions (Ca²+) role

Involved in muscle contraction and neurotransmitter release in response to action potential.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neurotransmitter that binds to its receptors to produce excitatory effects in neuromuscular junctions.