Lecture Notes: Neurotransmitters and Neurons

Overview

This lecture focuses on the fundamental aspects of neurotransmitters and neurons, integral components of the nervous system. It explains their roles, functions, and mechanisms in neuronal communication.

Key Concepts

Neurons:
- Basic unit of the nervous system.
- Responsible for receiving, processing, and transmitting information through electrical and chemical signals.
Neurotransmitters:
- Chemicals that transmit signals from a neuron to a target cell across a synapse.
- Essential for relaying, amplifying, and modulating signals between neurons and other cells.

Types of Neurotransmitters

Excitatory Neurotransmitters:
- Promote the firing of neurons.
- Example: Glutamate, which is involved in most aspects of normal brain function including cognition, memory, and learning.
Inhibitory Neurotransmitters:
- Prevent the firing of neurons.
- Example: Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which reduces neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system.

Mechanism of Action

Synapse and Synaptic Transmission:
- The site of transmission of electric nerve impulses between two nerve cells (neurons) or between a neuron and a gland or muscle cell.
- Involves the release of neurotransmitters from synaptic vesicles in the neuron's axon terminal.
Receptor Binding:
- Neurotransmitters bind to specific receptors on the surface of the target cell, causing a response.
- Can involve various receptor types, including ionotropic and metabotropic receptors.

Importance of Neurotransmitters

Play a critical role in shaping everyday life and functions.
Imbalances can lead to neurological and psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and Parkinson's disease.

Conclusion

Understanding neurotransmitters and neurons is crucial for exploring how our brain functions and for developing treatments for related disorders. The lecture emphasizes the importance of these components in the broader context of neuroscience and mental health.