Neuroscience
biological psychology and neurotransmission
A wrongheaded theory
Despite initial acceptance of Franz galls speculation, bump on the skull tells us nothing about the brain's underlying function. Some of his assumption held true
Biological psychology
The study of links between biological (genetic, neural, hormonal) and psychological processes.
A motor neuron
Dendrites- receive messages from other cells
Terminal branches of axon- forms from junctions with other cells
Axon- passes message away from the cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands
Myelin sheath- covers the axon of some neurons and helps speed neural impulses
Neural impulse- electrical signal traveling down the axon
Cell body- the cells life support center
Action potential
1. Neuron stimulation causes a brief change in electrical charge.
2. This depolarization produces another action potential a little farther along the axon.
3. As the action potential continue speedily down the axon, the first section has now completely recharged.
How neurons communicate
1. Electrical impulses travel down a neurons axon until reaching a tiny junction known as synapses
2. When an action potential reaches an axon terminal, it stimulates the release of neurotransmitters molecules.
3. The sending neuron normally reasons excess neurotransmitters molecules a process called reuptake
Some neurotransmitters and their functions
Agonists and antagonists
Curare poisoning paralyzes its victims by blocking ACh receptors involved in muscle movements.