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Neuron

A nerve cell that is the basic building block of the nervous system.

Neurotransmitter

A chemical released by neurons that transmit messages across the synapse.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neurotransmitter associated with slowing the heart rate and facilitating learning and memory.

Synapse

The junction between two neurons where neurotransmitters are released.

Long-term Potentiation (LTP)

A persistent strengthening of synapses based on recent patterns of activity, crucial for learning and memory.

Habituation

A type of learning in which an organism reduces its response to a repeated, insignificant stimulus.

Sensitization

A type of learning in which an organism's response to a stimulus is enhanced after experiencing a stronger stimulus.

Calcium ions (Ca2+)

Molecules that play a crucial role in neurotransmitter release and synaptic actions.

Epinephrine (EP)

A neurotransmitter also known as adrenaline, which prepares the body for fight or flight responses.

Dendrite

The branch-like extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons.

Presynaptic membrane

The membrane on the transmitting side of a synapse.

Postsynaptic membrane

The membrane on the receiving side of a synapse.

Electrical Synapse

A type of synapse that allows the direct passage of ions and signaling molecules from one neuron to another.

Neuroplasticity

The brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new connections throughout life.

Action potential

A brief electrical impulse by which information is transmitted along the axon of a neuron.

Reuptake

The process by which neurotransmitters are taken back into the presynaptic neuron after they have transmitted a signal.

Autoreceptors

Receptors located on the presynaptic neuron that respond to the neurotransmitter released by that neuron.

Ionotropic receptor

A receptor that contains a binding site for neurotransmitters and an ion channel that opens when the neurotransmitter binds.

Metabotropic receptor

A receptor that, upon binding with a neurotransmitter, activates a G-protein that influences other cellular processes.

Serotonin (5-HT)

A neurotransmitter that plays a significant role in mood, emotion, and various physiological functions.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)

The main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, which reduces neuronal excitability.

Cognition

The mental action or process of acquiring knowledge and understanding through thought, experience, and the senses.

Cholinergic system

The system that uses acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter, involved in muscle activation and cognitive functions.

Dopaminergic system

The system that uses dopamine as a neurotransmitter, associated with reward and motivation.

Hippocampus

A brain region essential for memory formation.

Alzheimer's Disease

A neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive memory loss and cognitive decline.

Korsakoff's Syndrome

A chronic neurocognitive disorder caused by thiamine deficiency, often related to alcohol abuse.

Thalamus

A brain structure that relays sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex.

Hormones

Chemical substances produced in the body that regulate various physiological processes.

Pituitary gland

The master gland of the endocrine system that regulates other endocrine glands.

Stress Response

The body's reaction to perceived threats, involving physiological and psychological changes.