Synapses+AG

Synapses (2nd assignment of CONTROL FREAK)

Motor Neuron p.234 What is a motor neuron? The axon of one motor neuron can stimulate from a few several muscle fibers of a muscle because each axon has several branches.

What is the name neurotransmitter released by motor neurons? Axon terminals contain synaptic vesicles that are filled with the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

How does botox prevent muscle contraction? Botox prevents wrinkling of the brow and skin about the eyes because it blocks the release of Ach into the synaptic cleft and therefore muscle contraction never occurs.

Cocaine p.268 What does cocaine interfere with at the synapses? It is a stimulant in the CNS that interferes with the re-uptake of dopamine at synapses.

What is the effect? The result is a rush of well being that lasts from 5-30 minutes and can soon become very addictive.

Methamphetamine p.268 What neurotransmitter does meth resemble? The structure is similar to that of dopamine and its stimulatory effect mimics cocaine.

What is the effect? After the initial rush, there is typically a state of high agitation that in some individuals lead to violent behavior. Chronic use can lead to what is called an amphetamine psychosis resulting in paranoia, auditory and visual hallucinations, self-absorption, irritability and aggressive erratic behavior.

Heroin p. 268 Where is heroin derived? It is derived from the resin or sap of the opium poppy plant, which is grown from Turkey to Southeast Asia and in parts of Latin America.

What is heroin converted to that can bind opiate receptors in the brain? It is converted to morphine.

What do the opiate receptors do? Morphine binds promptly to opioid receptors and the result is a rush sensation and euphoric experience.

Marijuana p. 269 What is THC? The dried flowering tops, leaves and stems of the Indian hemp plant Cannabis sativa contain and are cover by a resin that is rich in THC.

What is anandamide? A neurotransmitter that along with TCH belongs to a class of chemicals called cannabinoids.

What is the relationship between THC and anandamide and cannabinoids? Receptors that bind cannabinoids are located together and seems that the THC mimics the actions of anadamide.

Why are the receptors that bind cannabidoids important? They are important for memory.

What does smoking THC cause? Distortions of space and time can also occur in occasional users and in heavy users there are hallucinations, anxiety, depression, rapid flow of ideas, body image distortions, paranoia and psychotic symptoms.