Week 2 Class Lecture

Basic Concepts of Neurotransmission

  • Exons: Segments of a gene that are transcribed and translated into proteins.

  • Terminal: Refers to the terminal end of an axon where neurotransmitters are released.

  • Difference: Focus on the differences in the transmission of action potentials and how they relate to synaptic communication.

Sherrington's Research

  • Sherrington's Validation of the Synapse:

    • Conducted experiments measuring speeds of transmission along individual axons.

    • Compared one axon against bundled axons to observe transmission differences.

    • Found that action potentials failed to transmit as far in certain conditions, indicating the presence of synapses.

  • Importance of Synapse:

    • The key function of the synapse is the release of neurotransmitters.

    • Neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, facilitating communication between neurons.

Key Takeaways

  • Understand the mechanics of synaptic communication, including neurotransmitter release and axonal transmission differences.

  • Focus on how Sherrington's findings contribute to the understanding of neuronal communication.