2.  A nerve cell that is the building block of the cell.  Similar to cell but one key difference.  Neurons are specialized to transmit information through the body.

3.  Neurons stop reproducing shortly after birth.  HOWEVER….There are new connections that form throughout life

4. In 2 ways: Electrical and Chemical Dendrites and axons are designed to transmit and receive information. The connections between cells are called synapses

6.  They need to transmit information from one cell to another.  The dendrites receive information from other neurons.  It is then passed on to the cell body and message is carried Away to the Axon.  It then travels down the length of the axon as an electrical signal

7.  Once the signal reaches the end of the axon, it needs to reach the dendrites of another neuron.  The synapse is the “bridge” to another neuron.  “syn” means to join together.  Sometimes, it is a chemical message- a neurotransmitter-that is needed to send the message to another neuron through the synapse.

8.  Essential part of everyday functioning!  Scientists have identified more than 100 of these chemical messengers.  Neurotransmitters have in a way replaced the ancient idea of the 4 humors.

9.  Associated with memory, muscle contractions, memory and learning.  A lack of acetylcholine is associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

10.  Controls brain’s reward and pleasure center.  A lack of dopamine could result in Parkinson’s disease while too much could result in Schizophrenia.  Linked to addiction.  Caffeine increases dopamine levels just like heroin and cocaine.

11.  Associated with pain perception and emotions.  Body releases endorphins in response to fear or trauma.  Similar to morphine but even stronger!  Runner’s high. More exercise=more endorphins  Certain foods trigger release: chocolate and spicy foods

12.  Helps maintain mood, sleep memory and learning etc.  There is a correlation between low levels of serotonin and depression, anxiety and fatigue.  Some foods can help like bananas and turkey.  Exercise also seems to increase levels of serotonin.  Migraines and motion sickness can also be a result of low serotonin levels

13.  Neurons are composed of what parts?  Chemical messengers are called ……?  The bridge to another neuron is the…..?