Neuroscience - Mechanisms: The Neural Basis of Arousal and Emotion

Flashcards for key concepts from the Neuroscience lecture regarding mechanisms of arousal and emotion, focusing on neurotransmitters and brain regions involved.

What neurotransmitter is primarily responsible for motor function in the peripheral nervous system?

Acetylcholine (ACh) is the primary neurotransmitter for motor function.

Which neurotransmitter's neurons are primarily located in the locus coeruleus?

Norepinephrine (NE) neurons are primarily located in the locus coeruleus.

Where is serotonin concentrated in the brain?

Serotonin cells are concentrated in the raphe nuclei.

What effect does adenosine have in the brain during wakefulness?

Adenosine accumulates during wakefulness and produces drowsiness.

What is the function of the ventrolateral preoptic area (VLPA) in the sleep-wake cycle?

The VLPA is critical for promoting sleep and inhibits arousal centers.

How does caffeine affect adenosine receptors?

Caffeine is an antagonist of adenosine that blocks its receptors.

What happens to 5-HT neuron activity during REM sleep?

Activity of 5-HT neurons in the raphe nuclei falls to zero during REM sleep.

What is the role of hypocretin (orexin) concerning sleep and arousal?

Hypocretin stabilizes the flip-flop circuit between sleep and arousal states.

Which emotion has received the most physiological research attention?

Fear has received the most physiological research attention.

What happened to patients who lack an amygdala?

Patients lacking an amygdala fail to show fear.