The nervous system is a complex network of cells that allows the body to send and receive signals. At the core of this system are neurons, specialized cells that transmit information through electrical and chemical signals. These neurons communicate with each other using chemicals called neurotransmitters.

Neurons

Neurons are the building blocks of the nervous system. They are highly specialized cells that can receive, process, and transmit information through electrical and chemical signals. Neurons have three main parts: the cell body, dendrites, and axon. The cell body contains the nucleus and other organelles, while dendrites receive signals from other neurons. The axon is a long, thin fiber that carries signals away from the cell body to other neurons or muscles.

Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters are chemicals that neurons use to communicate with each other. When an electrical signal reaches the end of an axon, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters into the synapse, the small gap between neurons. These neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the dendrites of the receiving neuron, causing a new electrical signal to be generated and passed along.

There are many different types of neurotransmitters, each with specific functions in the nervous system. For example, dopamine is involved in pleasure and reward, while serotonin plays a role in mood regulation. Imbalances in neurotransmitters can lead to a variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and Parkinson’s disease.

Summary

Neurons are specialized cells that transmit information through electrical and chemical signals. They have three main parts: the cell body, dendrites, and axon. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that neurons use to communicate with each other, allowing for the transmission of signals throughout the nervous system. Understanding the role of neurons and neurotransmitters is essential for grasping the complexities of the nervous system and the many functions it performs in the body.

Key Takeaways:

• Neurons are the basic building blocks of the nervous system
• Neurons communicate with each other through electrical and chemical signals
• Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals between neurons
• Neurotransmitters are released from the axon terminals of one neuron and bind to receptors on another neuron
• Some neurotransmitters excite neurons, while others inhibit neuron activity
• Imbalances in neurotransmitters can lead to various neurological and psychiatric disorders

Key Terms:

• Neurons: Cells in the nervous system that transmit information through electrical and chemical signals.
• Neurotransmitters: Chemical messengers that transmit signals across synapses between neurons.
• Synapse: The junction between two neurons where communication occurs.
• Excitatory neurotransmitters: Neurotransmitters that increase the likelihood of a neuron firing an action potential.
• Inhibitory neurotransmitters: Neurotransmitters that decrease the likelihood of a neuron firing an action potential.
• Receptor: Protein molecules on the surface of neurons that bind to specific neurotransmitters.
• Acetylcholine: A neurotransmitter involved in muscle movement, memory, and learning.
• Dopamine: A neurotransmitter involved in reward and motivation.
• Serotonin: A neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation and sleep.
• Glutamate: A major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain.