This document contains essential information from lectures and textbooks, in order to be equipped for the first set of exams. It has questions and answers which are typical of what can be found on the exam paper. The information provided gives knowledge on the topics covered in the first few weeks ...
Self-test questions for Week 2 These are here to help you focus
your study for the module Synapses and
Neuropharmacology
If you've studied the materials about synapses, hopefully you can
now answer the following questions...
- What is the difference between an excitatory and an
inhibitory neurotransmitter?
An EXTITATORY NEUROTRANSMITTER formulates and
sends an electrical signal (action potential) to the
receiving neuron. It polarizes the neurotransmitters in
the post-synaptic membrane. In other words, it
stimulates the neurotransmitter and promotes
electrical signals (stimulates action potentials).
However, on the other hand:
An INHIBITORY NEUROTRANSMITTER prevents a
neuron from taking firing action. It depolarizes the
neurotransmitters in the post-synaptic membrane. In
other words, it blocks the reaction rate/slows it down
therefore, an action potential is less likely.
, - Can you describe, or draw, the life cycle of a
neurotransmitter?
Firstly, the neurotransmitter is synthesized in the cell
body, or axon.
The neurotransmitter is then packaged into vesicles.
The action potential causes the vesicle to fuse to the
pre-synaptic cleft/membrane and release the
contents into the synaptic cleft.
Then, the neurotransmitter binds to and activates the
post-synaptic receptors.
Finally, the neurotransmitter diffuses away by active
diffusion, destruction/deactivation or re-uptake. It is
metabolized and/or transported back into the
terminal.
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