6.5 Neurons and Synapses

6.5 Neurons and Synapses

1. NATURE OF SCIENCE

   • Cooperation and collaboration
     • Research into memory and learning

2. NEURONS TRANSMIT ELECTRICAL IMPULSES

   • Myelination of nerve fibres
     • Allows for saltatory conduction
   • Analysis of oscilloscope traces
     • Resting potential
       • Neurons pump Na+ and K+ across their membranes to generate it
     • Action potential
       • Depolarisation and repolarisation of the neuron
         • Propagation of nerve impulses
     • Threshold potential
       • A nerve impulse is only initiated if the threshold potential is reached

3. SYNAPSES

   • Pre vs Postsynaptic neurons
     • Neurotransmitter
       • Secretion and reabsorption of aceylcholine by neurons
         • Pesticides
           • Blocking of synaptic transmission at cholinergic synapses in insects by binding of neonicotinoid pesticides to acetylcholine receptors
         • Development of numerous pharmaceuticals for the treatment of mental disorders
         • Aim 8
           • Social effects of the abuse of psychoactive drugs
             • Neurotoxin Botox for cosmetic treatments