PSYC62H3 Chapter 5: Chapter 5
Document Summary
Chemicals located in specific regions of neurons that are released under specific stimulation. Act on specific receptors and induce short term changes in membrane potential: neurohormones. Chemicals synthesized in one area of the nervous system and are released into circulation. Travel to site that is distant from release site and produce effect on brain or body: neuromodulators. Modify responses of other transmitters pre-synaptically or post-synaptically. A chemical can act as a neuromodulator in one area of the nervous system and a neurotransmitter in another part. Found in various parts of the pns and many areas of the cns. In cns, can have excitatory and inhibitory effects. Important nt for memory functions, aggression, and grand mal seizures has 2 main receptors: muscarinic. Other drugs including curare, atropine, and some antidepressants alter cholinergic activity. Cholinergic system is in the brain and increases ability to focus on environment and respond to it.
