electric charge freely flows through gap junctions from cell to cell
What is the function of a chemical synapse?
neurotransmitter acts as a signal from presynaptic to postsynaptic cell
In a chemical synapse, what opens gated calcium channels?
action potential
calcium triggers_______releasing neurotransmitter into the synaptic cleft
exocytosis
How many different types of neurotransmitters are there?
100
What are the two types of neurotransmitters?
excitatory and inhibitory
binding of neurotransmitter changes membrane potential of the_______
postsynaptic cell
What is the function of an excitatory postsynaptic potential?
brings membrane closer to threshold potential
What is the function of an inhibitory postsynaptic potential?
takes membrane farther from threshold potential (hyperpolarization)
What is acetylcholine?
released at neuromuscular junctions and is excitatory in the brain and skeletal muscles but inhibitory in cardiac muscle
What are biogenic amines?
they have widespread physiological effects and are psychoactive. Includes adrenelin. When you have abnormal levels, its associated with several mental illnesses.
What are neuropeptides?
includes opiate peptides like endorphins
What are ionotropic receptors?
ligand gated ion channels open in response to a neurotransmitter
What are metabotropic receptors?
g protein coupled receptors initiate changes in postsynaptic cell