Neurotransmitters Flashcards
How does a neurotransmitter release?
Directly into synaptic cleft and acts directly on post synaptic terminal
How does a neuromodulator release?
Into extracellular space
What are the two types of neurotransmitters?
Fast acting (1/1000 of a second)
Slow acting (1/10 of a second to minutes)
How do neuromodulators alter neural functions?
By acting at a distance away from synaptic cleft
How long do the effects of neuromodulators last?
Minutes to days
What is acetylcholine?
Major transmitter in the PNS
What do all motor neurons use?
Acetylcholine
What does acetylcholine cause at the skeletal muscle?
Initiates contraction
What does acetylcholine cause at the ANS?
Slows heart
Constricts pupil
Increases GI secretions/contractions
What does acetylcholine cause at the brain?
Arousal
Pleasure
Reward
Cognitive function
What does glutamate cause at the brain?
Excitatory effect
Learning and memory
What does glycine cause at the spinal cord?
Inhibition
What does GABA cause at the CNS?
Inhibition
Sedation
Antianxiety
Anti seizures
Sleep inducing
What do low levels of GABA lead to?
Anxiety and seizures
What are the amino acid transmitters?
Glutamate
Glycine
GABA
What does dopamine cause at the emotional system?
Feeling of wanting or reward
What does dopamine cause at the basal ganglia?
Control of movement, attention, decision making, and goal directed behavior
What does a decreased level of dopamine in the basal ganglia lead to?
Parkinson’s
What does dopamine cause at the frontal lobe?
Thinking and planning
What is an increased level of dopamine in the frontal lobe associated with?
Schizophrenia
What does norepinephrine cause at the adrenal gland and SNS?
Increased HR and force
Dilation of bronchioles
Inhibition of peristalsis
What does norepinephrine cause at the emotional system and cerebral cortex?
Control of mood
Increased attention to sensory
What does histamine cause at the brain?
Regulates wakefulness and attention
What type of response is histamine?
Allergic or inflammatory response
