PSYC 220 Lecture Notes - Axon Terminal, Membrane Potential, Reuptake
Document Summary
Neurotransmitter deactivation: 2 main mechanisms of neurotransmitter deactivation, reuptake: chemicals are reabsorbed into presynaptic axon terminal, primary mechanism of ssri"s: blocking reuptake, chemical breakdown in the synapse. Excitation: some neurotransmitters stimulate the flow of positively charged ions (na+) into a neuron (excitation, this increases the membrane potential and therefore makes it more likely to depolarize and fire and action potential. Excitatory/inhibitory balance: every neuron is constantly bombarded with excitatory/inhibitory input from others and a delicate balance must be maintained for optimal functions. Glutamate and gaba: glutamate (primary excitatory neurotransmitter) Important for learning and memory: gaba (primary inhibitory neurotransmitter) Important for motor control and anxiety: destruction of gaba producing neurons occurs in huntington"s disease, leading to tremors, loss of motor control, and personality changes, both glutamate and gaba are simple amino acids. Acetylcholine (ach: ach is an excitatory neurotransmitter involved in memory and muscle activity, nicotine binds to ach receptors.
