1. An Intro. To Biopsychology
The Nervous System

2. Neuron
Simplest nerve cell

3. Parts of Neuron
Body
Dendrites (hairy fibers that receive info.)

4. Axons
Long and skinny
Send messages to the cell body, other neurons , muscles and glands

5. W/out it no muscle control
Myelin Sheath: insulates axons on some neurons to increase their speed.
Neural speed= 2 mi/hr to 200 m/hr
W/out it no muscle control

6. Neural Reaction Pressure, Heat, Light, Chemicals
Cells are stimulated + send a charge down the axon= Action Potential
Action Potential Animation
Action Potential Animation

7. Synaptic Gap
The space btwn. 2 neurons

8. Neurotransmitters
Chemical messengers that got from one neuron to another
When they attach to a neuron they release ions into it

9. Some Neurotransmitters
Acetycholine (Ach)
Effects learning + memory
Is located where neurons meet the bones
Causes contraction
Can be used in botox (no contracting=no wrinkles..but botox can be creepy)
Alzheimers patients have less Ach

10. Dopamine (r) Influences mvmnt, learning, attention & emotion
Without enough Dopamine you have tremors
Parkinsons patients & schizophrenics have too little

11. Serotonin
Effects modd, hunger, sleep, arousal

12. Norepinephrine
Effects alertness, arousal, & depression

13. GABA
Inhibits action
Too little causes seizures, tremor +/ insomnia

14. GABA Pathways in the Brain

15. Glutamate Effects memory & excitement Too much= Seizure or migraines
Ex. MSG

16. Endorphins Natural Opiate Release during vigorous exercise or pain
Explains running high & ability to function thru serious pain (ex. Combat wounds)
Taking external opiates causes the body to stop making endorphins=withdrawal symptoms