Bell Ringer Monday What are neurons and what is the structure of a neuron? Objective: Identify how neurons communicate and how certain drugs affect our brain
Review: It all Starts with the Neuron…
Neuron Structure Neurons do NOT touch each other- the space in between is call the synapse.
How a Neuron Fires It is an electrochemical process Electrical inside the neuron Chemical outside the neuron (in the synapse in the form of a neurotransmitter). The firing is call Action Potential.
The All-or None Response The idea that either the neuron fires or it does not- no part way firing. Like a gun
How Neurons Communicate
1. Electrical impulses (action potential) travel from one neuron to the next (across a ‘junction’ or synapse)
2. Impulses signal release of transmitters, which are chemicals (from sacs, called vesicles), across the synapse and bind to receptors
Finally.. 3. The “Sending” neuron reabsorbs extra neurotransmitters (which is called reuptake)
Close-up, neruons communicating 0cj4NX87Ykhttps:// 0cj4NX87Yk
Neurotransmitters Chemical messengers released by terminal buttons through the synapse. We should know at least 4 types and what they do.
Acetylcholine Its function is motor movement and maybe memory. To much and you will…. Be loopy Not enough and you will….crash Lack of ACH has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
Dopamine Its function is motor movement and alertness. Lack of dopamine is associated with Parkinson’s disease. Overabundance associated with schizophrenia
Serotonin Function deals with mood control. Lack of serotonin has been linked to depression.
Endorphins Function deals with pain control. We become addicted to endorphin causing feelings.
How do drugs affect our brain? (coffee) VRfhQ&feature=youtu.be (crack cocaine) VRfhQ&feature=youtu.be
homework On back of neurons sheet, define in your OWN WORDS the three steps associated with neuron communication