10 Minute Neuroscience - Neurotransmitters

What are neurotransmitters typically stored in within the presynaptic neuron before they are released?

• Synaptic cleft

• Receptors

• Vesicles

• Postsynaptic neuron

Which type of neurotransmitter receptor directly opens an ion channel when a neurotransmitter binds to it?

• Metabotropic receptor

• G protein-coupled receptor

• Ionotropic receptor

• Autoreceptor

Which of the following are primary mechanisms for removing excess neurotransmitters from the synaptic cleft?

• Diffusion, enzymatic degradation, and reuptake

• Active transport and exocytosis

• Pinocytosis and phagocytosis

• Osmosis and filtration

What enzyme breaks down acetylcholine in the synapse, terminating its action?

• Monoamine oxidase

• Acetylcholinesterase

• Dopamine beta-hydroxylase

• Catechol-O-methyltransferase

Which enzyme catalyzes the conversion of dopamine to norepinephrine?

• Tryptophan hydroxylase

• Glutamic acid decarboxylase

• Dopamine beta-hydroxylase

• Aminotransferase

Where are serotonin neurons primarily found in the brainstem?

• Locus Coeruleus

• Raphe Nuclei

• Substantia Nigra

• Ventral Tegmental Area

What is the general effect of glutamate on neurons?

• Inhibitory

• Excitatory

• Modulatory

• Stabilizing

What type of ion channel do GABA-A receptors open to produce their effect?

• Sodium channels

• Potassium channels

• Calcium channels

• Chloride channels