The Nervous System!

A collection of vocabulary terms and definitions related to the structure and function of the nervous system, specifically focusing on neurons and neurotransmitters.

Neuron Anatomy

The structural components of a neuron, including the cell body, dendrites, and axon, which are essential for transmitting signals.

Nerves

Bundles of neurons encased in connective tissue.

Axon Terminals

The endings of an axon where neurotransmitters are released.

Dendrites

Branch-like structures that receive signals from other neurons.

Cell Body

The part of a neuron that contains the nucleus and organelles; integrates signals.

Glial Cells

Supportive cells in the nervous system that do not transmit signals.

Sensory Neurons

Neurons that collect information from the environment and convey it to the brain.

Motor Neurons

Neurons that transmit signals from the brain or spinal cord to muscles or glands.

Interneurons

Neurons that interpret signals and relay them between sensory and motor neurons.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Comprised of the brain and spinal cord, it processes information and coordinates responses.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Includes all sensory and motor neurons outside the CNS that communicate with the environment.

Resting Potential

The state of a neuron when it is not firing, with a more negative charge inside than outside.

Action Potential

An electrical signal transmitted down an axon when the charge inside the neuron becomes more positive.

Membrane Potential

The difference in electrical charge across a neuron's membrane.

Neurotransmitter

Chemical signals released by neurons to communicate with other neurons or target cells.

Synapse

The gap or space between two neurons where neurotransmitters are released.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter signaling muscles to contract.

Glutamate

A neurotransmitter associated with learning and memory.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter that affects movement, motivation, and mood.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter that regulates mood and feelings of well-being.

Stimuli

External or internal changes that elicit responses in the nervous system.

Ion Channels

Protein openings in the cell membrane that allow ions to flow in and out, affecting neuron charge.

Neurotransmitter Receptors

Proteins on dendrites that bind neurotransmitters, initiating a response in the next neuron.

Electrical Charge

The difference in charge that exists across a neuron's membrane, crucial for generating action potentials.

Signal Transmission

The process by which neurons communicate with each other via electrical impulses and neurotransmitters.

Excitatory Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters that cause depolarization of the postsynaptic membrane, increasing the likelihood of firing.

Inhibitory Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters that cause hyperpolarization of the postsynaptic membrane, decreasing the likelihood of firing.

Neuron Firing

The process by which a neuron generates an action potential and transmits a signal.

Neuron Loss

The irreversible loss of neurons, which occurs naturally over time and can be accelerated by toxins.

Toxins

Substances that can harm neurons and lead to their death or malfunction.

Cell Membrane

The protective barrier surrounding a neuron that regulates ion exchange.

Charged Molecules

Ions that carry an electric charge and are essential for creating membrane potentials.

Dendritic Structures

Modifications of dendrites that enhance their ability to collect sensory information.

Neuronal Communication

The process by which neurons share signals through action potentials and neurotransmitters.

Neuroplasticity

The ability of the nervous system to adapt and reorganize itself by forming new connections.

Pumping Ions

The active transport of ions across the neuron's membrane to establish resting and action potentials.

Chemical Signals

Molecules released by neurons that bind to receptors and elicit responses in target cells.

Neurotransmitter Binding

The process where neurotransmitters attach to receptors, triggering cellular responses.

Aberrant Neurotransmitter Levels

Imbalanced levels of neurotransmitters that can lead to neurological and psychological disorders.