PSYA01H3 Chapter Notes - Chapter 4: Cannabinoid, Acetylcholine
Document Summary
most synaptic communication is accomplished by glutamate (excitatory most important in brain + spinal) & neurotransmitters other than glutamate & gaba activate or inhibit entire circuits of neurons that are involved in particular brain functions: facilitation of learning, control of wakefulness, vigilance, suppression of impulsive behaviour, all sensory organs transmit info to brain through release of glutamate, except for neurons that detect pain stimuli. nmda receptor: critical role in effects of environmental stimulation on developing brain & responsible for many changes in synaptic connections for learning. nmda deactivated by alcohol, thus binge drinkers have no memory. some drugs depress behaviour, causing relaxation, sedation, or loss of consciousness. these drugs act on gaba receptor, incr sensitivy to neurotransmitter. Low doses=calming effect, higher doses=difficulty in walking & talking, unconsioucness, coma & death. Anti-anxiety drug: members of benzodiazepines, a tranquilizer, which reduces anxiety. Benzodiazepine: a class of drug having anxiolytic (tranquilizing) effects, such as diazepam (valium)
