Neuronal Signaling and Synaptic Transmission Explained

Dr. Mike explains neuron signaling, focusing on action potentials and synaptic transmission. He describes how sodium and calcium channels facilitate electrical and chemical signals, leading to neurotransmitter release. The video covers excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters and their effects on neurons. It concludes with a summary of synaptic transmission phases and introduces the neuromuscular junction, highlighting acetylcholine's role in muscle contraction.

What is the term used to describe the electrical impulse sent down a neuron's axon?

• Action potential

• Membrane potential

• Resting potential

• Synaptic potential

At what voltage does the neuron's charge need to reach to open voltage-gated sodium channels?

• -70 millivolts

• -55 millivolts

• -65 millivolts

• -60 millivolts

Which ion is responsible for making the inside of a neuron more positive during an action potential?

• Potassium

• Chloride

• Sodium

• Calcium

What is the resting membrane potential of a neuron?

• -55 millivolts

• -50 millivolts

• -70 millivolts

• -90 millivolts

What happens when calcium ions enter the synaptic terminal?

• They close sodium channels

• They stimulate vesicles to release neurotransmitters

• They cause hyperpolarization

• They inhibit neurotransmitter release

What happens when an action potential reaches the end of a neuron?

• It stops immediately

• It triggers the release of neurotransmitters

• It causes the neuron to shrink

• It reverses direction

Which neurotransmitter is mentioned as an example of an excitatory neurotransmitter?

• Serotonin

• Glutamate

• Dopamine

• GABA

What effect does an inhibitory neurotransmitter have on a neuron?

• Triggers action potential

• Increases positive charge

• Opens chloride channels

• Opens sodium channels

What is the term for the junction where a neuron connects with a muscle?

• Dendritic spine

• Axon terminal

• Neuromuscular junction

• Synaptic cleft

Which neurotransmitter is released at the neuromuscular junction to stimulate muscle contraction?

• Acetylcholine

• Dopamine

• Serotonin

• Norepinephrine