The University of Auckland
Faculty of Science
Centre for Brain Research
Cognitive Neuroscience Subject List:
Cognitive Neuroimaging
Neurodevelopment
Neurogenetics
Transmitters and Drugs
Understand the role of neurotransmitters in synaptic transmission.
Familiarize with common neurotransmitters and their functions.
Learn about the effects of commonly used drugs at the synapse.
Definition and structure of a synapse.
Cell body
Axon terminal
Axon
Neurotransmitter Release:
Neurotransmitters are stored in vesicles within the axon until neuron stimulation.
The Synaptic Space:
The small gap between the axon terminal of one neuron and the dendrite of another.
Binding Process:
Neurotransmitter binds to receptor sites on the next neuron's dendrites, leading to potential changes.
Structure of Ionotropic Receptors:
Binding site for neurotransmitters that opens or closes ion channels, affecting ion flow.
Key Events During Postsynaptic Potential:
Influx of Na+ leads to depolarization (EPSP).
Efflux of K+ causes hyperpolarization (IPSP).
Ca2+ influx also results in hyperpolarization (IPSP).
Model:
Each neurotransmitter fits a specific receptor like a key in a lock.
Example: Acetylcholine (ACh), GABA.
Ion-Channel Linked Receptors:
Fast acting, alter ion flow directly.
G-Protein Linked Receptors:
Slower, leading to long-lasting effects through second messengers.
Neurotransmitter activates receptor.
Receptor activates G-protein, which stimulates adenylyl cyclase to convert ATP to cAMP.
cAMP subsequently activates protein kinase A (PKA).
Agonist Drugs:
Mimic neurotransmitter action.
Antagonist Drugs:
Block neurotransmitter action.
Excitatory transmitter with two types of receptors:
Ionotropic: opens Na+ channels (EPSP).
Metabotropic: opens K+ channels (IPSP).
Repeated concepts of ionic movements during postsynaptic potentials, focusing on Na+, K+, and Ca2+ and their specific roles in depolarization and hyperpolarization.
Schematic overview of important groups of acetylcholinergic neurons in the rat brain.
Antagonists:
Example: Curare, causing paralysis.
Agonists:
Nicotine enhances attention/arousal, and anti-cholinesterases prolong ACh action (e.g. Physostigmine).
Reuptake: Process wherein neurotransmitter molecules are reabsorbed from the synaptic cleft.
Enzymatic Degradation: Breakdown of neurotransmitters by enzymes.
An excitatory transmitter that causes Na+ influx resulting in EPSPs; functions through both ionotropic and metabotropic receptors.
Details of ion channel interactions and their impact on neuronal action potentials reiterating the roles of Na+, K+, and Ca2+.
Antagonist: Phencyclidine (PCP) causing euphoria and psychotic behavior.
Agonists: AMPA, NMDA, kainic acid facilitating glutamate activity.
A versatile neurotransmitter that can be both excitatory and inhibitory; has several subtypes affecting transmission differently.
Schematic representation showing distribution of dopaminergic neuron groups in the rat brain, focusing on areas like the neocortex, hippocampus, and various nuclei.
Drugs that decrease transmission:
Risperdal and Zyprexa (antipsychotics).
Drugs that increase transmission:
Amphetamines and cocaine, impacting multiple neurotransmitters.
Can be excitatory or inhibitory, working via multiple mechanisms affecting cellular cAMP levels.
Specific receptor types identified by their coupling mechanisms and potential effects.
Schematic overview detailing the distribution of serotonergic neurons across various brain structures.
Drugs increasing serotonin transmission:
SSRIs like Prozac (Fluoxetine) and Zoloft for depression relief.
Drugs decreasing transmission:
Antipsychotics such as Risperdal and Zyprexa.
Discusses reuptake and enzymatic degradation of neurotransmitters.
An inhibitory neurotransmitter that opens Cl- channels leading to IPSPs. It has both ionotropic (GABAA) and metabotropic (GABAB) receptor types.
Similar concepts focusing on GABA's ionic effects in the context of postsynaptic potentials.
GABAA Agonists:
Example: Benzodiazepines, aiding in anxiety reduction.
GABAA Antagonists:
Example: Bicuculline, associated with seizure risks.
Illustration of GABA receptor binding sites and their functions.
RO15-4513 as an alcohol antagonist.
Study demonstrating the effects of alcohol and RO15-4513 on behavior in rats.