Neurotransmission Flashcards
(9 cards)
What is action potential?
A brief pulse that is generated by a neuron. It travels along the axon to other neurons
What is a neurotransmitter?
Chemical messages that are stored in the axon terminal of the neuron.
When are neurotransmitters released?
They are released across the synaptic gap when the action potential reaches the end of the axon
What are inhibitory neurotransmitters?
Neurotransmitters that increase the negative charge of the neuron, making it less likely to fire
What are excitatory neurotransmitters?
Neurotransmitters that increase the positive charge of a neuron, making it more likely to fire
What is an agonist?
A molecule that increases the effect of any given neurotransmitter.
What is an antagonist?
A molecule that reduces the effect of the neurotransmitters.
How do agonists work?
It mimics the neurotransmitter itself and binds to the receptor site of the post-synaptic neuron.
How do antagonists work?
They block the receptor sites on the post-synaptic neuron.
