PSY318H5 Lecture Notes - Inhibitory Postsynaptic Potential, Excitatory Postsynaptic Potential, Otto Loewi
Document Summary
The concept of synapse: neurons communicate by transmitting chemicals at junctions, called synapses . In 1906, charles scott sherrington (1857 - 1952) coined the term synapse to describe the specialized gap that existed between neurons. Inhibitory postsynaptic potential (ipsp) or the temporary hyperpolarization of a membrane. An isps occurs when synaptic input selectively opens the gates for positively charged potassium ions to leave the cell or negatively charged chloride ions to enter the cells. Categories of neurotransmitters: major categories of neurotransmitters include the following: Multifunctional chains of amino acids made by the cell"s dna: peptide transmitters: Respond to pleasure and pain: opioid peptides. Act on centers for pleasure and pain in the brain. Transmitter gases: synthesized as needed by the cell, can be produced in many regions of the cell, after production diffuse away from the cell, nitric oxide (no) Dilates blood vessels in the brain and in the genital organs. Viagra - enhances no function: carbon monoxide (co)
