Intro to synaptic potentials and neural networks

Question 1

What is the length of a typical action potential

Answer 1

2-5ms

Question 2

Describe the process of an excitatory synaptic potential

Answer 2

Presynaptic neuron gas vesicle with neurotransmitter

AP in presynaptic neurone causes release of neurotransmitter (delay due to diffusion of neurotransmitter across synapse)

Neurotransmitter binds to itscognate receptors which causes voltage gated ion channels to open (can move Na+/K+ in or out- depolarisation lets Na+ in)

Depolarisation

Neurotransmitter molecules unbind and diffuse away/glial cells clean up

Decay of evoked synaptic potential

Question 3

What is an inhibitory synaptic potential

Answer 3

The same as an excitatory except the neurotransmitters cause hyperpolarisation

Question 4

How long does an inhibitory synaptic potential last

Answer 4

10-500ms