Topic 7 - Biological psychology Flashcards
Main role of sensory neurons.
Transmit info from sensory cells in the body called receptors to the brain.
Main role of interneurons?
Receive the output from sensory neurons. Interneurons are nerve cells that connect different neurons to each other.
Main role of motor neurons?
transmit commands from interneurons to the glands and muscles of the body, most often through the spinal cord.
What are dendrites?
Branch-like extensions that receive information from other cells axons.
Role of the myelin sheath?
Insulates the axon, protecting it from stimuli that might interrupt transmission of info. Also speeds up transmission.
Define resting potential.
The neurons state at rest.
Its membrane is polarised (-ve charge membrane and +ve charge outside)
Define graded potentials.
Voltage changes that move from dendrites and down the membrane like ripples.
What are the 2 main characteristics of graded potentials?
Their strength diminishes as they travel along membrane away from source of stimulation
Graded potentials are cumulative.
What is an action potential?
If the change in axon voltage surpasses a threshold, the axon suddenly lets in a surge of Na+.
The charge inside the membrane then becomes + > K ions rush out > restoring neuron to its resting potential.
What are the 6 steps of communication between neurons?
1. Resting state 2 Depolarisation 3. Graded potential 4. Action potential 5. Neurotransmitter release 6. Chemical message transmitted
What is glutamate and what is it involved in?
Excitatory neurotransmitter.
Involved in; memory formation, synaptic plasticity & learning.
What is excess glutamate linked with?
Neurodegenerative diseases (Huntingtons and alzheimers)
What neurotransmitter has the opposite effect to glutamate?
GABA
What is GABA and what does it play an important role in?
Inhibitory neurotransmitter.
Important for regulation anxiety
Name 5 things dopamine is involved in?
Thought, feeling, motivation, emotional arousal, reward mechanisms.
