Cell body of the nerve; contains nucleus, DNA, mitochondria, and ribosomes

Branch-like extension fibers that receive messages from other nerve cells; “The listeners”

Long, cable like extension that transmits electrical impulses from the cell body out to other neurons; “The talker”

Insulating material that encases some axons; speeds up the transmissions of messages

The small gaps between axons and dendrites; space where neurotransmitters are sent to another neuron

Neurotransmitters do not stay bonded to the receiving neuron; neurotransmitters are reabsorbed by the neuron that released them

Voltage spike the travels along axon

Brief time after action potential before another action potential can begin

A neuron either fires or it doesn’t fire

Chemicals that transmit information from one neuron to another neuron

Released by neurons that control skeletal muscles; enables muscle action, learning, and memory; Loss of production can lead to Alzheimer’s

Involved in the regulation of mood, hunger, sleep and arousal, and perhaps aggression; low levels related to depression

Influence movement, learning, attention, and pleasurable emotion; high levels linked to schizophrenia; circuits activated by cocaine and amphetamines; when level drops below 80% symptoms of Parkinson's disease begin to emerge

Abnormal levels linked to depression, circuits may be activated by cocaine and amphetamines

Involved in memory; an overabundance of it can cause seizures and migraines

Involved in the regulation of pain and pleasure

Involved in regulating anxiety; May be related to eating disorders or sleep difficulties and disorders

Rev up the neurons; increase the likelihood the neuron will fire off an action potential

Chill neurons out; decreasing the likelihood the neuron will fire off an action potential; example: GABA