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Gain insight into the science of physiology, focusing on bioelectrical phenomena in nerve cells and the physiology of synapses and interneuron connections. This comprehensive guide covers the neuron structure, glial cells, action potentials, synaptic transmission, neurotransmitters, and their role in various functions such as learning, memory, movement, and emotional states. Explore how neurons facilitate communication throughout the nervous system.
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Physiology as the science. Bioelectrical phenomena in nerve cells. Physiology of synapses, interneuron connections Author ass.prof. N.M. Volkova
Neurons • Communication throughout the nervous system takes place via neurons—cellsthat are highly specialized to receive and transmit information from one part ofthe body to another.
The Neuron Soma Dendrites Myelin Sheath Axon Terminals Axon
Glial cells • Along with neurons, the human nervous system is made up of other types ofspecialized cells, called glial cellsbetween neurons and blood vesselsin the brain.
TheSynapse • The point of communication between two neurons • is called the synapse. • The transmission of information between two neurons occurs in one of two • ways: electrically or chemically.
Chemical Signals • One neuron will transmit info to another neuron or to a muscle or gland cell by releasing chemicals called neurotransmitters. • The site of this chemical interplay is known as the synapse. • An axon terminal (synaptic knob) will abut another cell, a neuron, muscle fiber, or gland cell. • This is the site of transduction – the conversion of an electrical signal into a chemical signal.
Synaptic Transmission • An AP reaches the axon terminal of the presynaptic cell and causes V-gated Ca2+ channels to open. • Ca2+ rushes in, binds to regulatory proteins & initiates NT exocytosis. • NTs diffuse across the synaptic cleft and then bind to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane and initiate some sort of response on the postsynaptic cell.
Important Neurotransmitters • Acetylcholine -learning, memory, muscle contractions • Dopamine – movement, thought processes, rewarding sensations • Serotonin - emotional states, sleep • Norepinephrine - physical arousal, learning, memory • GABA - Inhibition of brain activity • Endorphins Pain perception Positive emotions