Neuron Definition: A nerve cell, neurons transmit electrical and chemical information (via neurotransmitters) throughout the body

Parts of a Neuron Dendrites: parts of the neuron that receiver information from the axons of other neurons Axon: part of the neuron that carries messages away from the cell to the dendrites on another neuron **** Think Axon=Away to remember the difference Synapse: the junction point of two or more neurons; a connection is made by neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters Vesicles: bubblelike containers of neurotransmitters, located at the ends of axons Neurotransmitters: chemicals in the endings of neurons that send information across synapses

Process of Neurotransmission Electrical impulse goes down the axon to the terminal (nerve ending) At the axon terminal, the chemical containers (vesicles) holding molecules are designed to float toward the synapse. The vesicles lock into place at the axon terminal and release neurotransmitters across the synapse (open space)

Process of Neurotransmission The neurotransmitters float across synapse to specific dendritic receptors (on the dendrite of another nerve cell) Each dendritic receptor is designed to accept a specific type of neurotransmitter. The neurotransmitters excite the dendrite on the new cell and the process repeats.

Acetylcholine (Ach) (A-SEE-til-KOH-leen) Most common and well-studied neurotransmitter Neurotransmitter that regulates basic bodily processes such as movement and memory Involved in Alzheimer disease

Dopamine Neurotransmitter involved in the control of bodily movements Plays central role in Parkinson’s disease NOTE: Scientists have tried to implant tissue from the adrenal glands (manufactures neurotransmitters) in patients brain.

Endorphins Neurotransmitters that relieve pain and increase our sense of well-being