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Neurophysiology Terms
VT BMES 5004
25
Physiology
Graduate
09/22/2008

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Term
Soma
Definition
The heart of the neuron. Contains nucleus, most of the mitochondria, ability to synthesize protein and neurotransmitters.
Term
Dendrites
Definition
Input part of the neuron
Term
Axon
Definition
Output conduction/transmission path of a neuron.
Term
Synapse
Definition
Output terminal of a neuron.
Term
Local Interneuron
Definition
Neurons found in the spinal cord or the brain to connect multiple neurons together. Usually inhibitory.
Term
Projection Interneuron
Definition
Neuron that conducts signals from one brain area to another.
Term
Ion Channels
Definition
Proteins, typically 4 or 5, that act as extremely fast conduits for ion trafficking across neuronal membranes. Essential for signal conduction in the nervous system. Able to open and close based on electrical or chemical innervation. Highly selective on what ions can pass through a given channel.
Term
Channel Pore Loop
Definition
Gap in the protein structure of an ion channel.
Term
Nernst Equation
Definition
Measures the electrical potential required, in mV, to cancel the force pushing ions across their concentration gradient. (i.e. measures the necessary potential needed across a membrane to keep a given concentration of ions from moving)
Term
Ouabain
Definition
Chemical used to shut down sodium/potassium ATPase pump.
Term
Lithium
Definition
Used as a substitute for sodium - won't pass through sodium channel.
Term
Cesium
Definition
Substitute for potassium - won't pass through potassium channels.
Term
Acetate
Definition
Substitute for chloride - won't pass through chloride channel.
Term
Action Potential
Definition
Rapid redistribution of ions along their concentration gradient.
Term
Time Constant
Definition
Time required for a membrane to reach half of its peak response. Equal to the product of the membrane's resistance and capacitance.
Term
Length Constant
Definition
Measurement of how quickly a membrane response will decay if it propagates strictly by current through the cell.
Term
Unmyelinated Axon
Definition
Raw axon loaded with ion channels. Action potential jumps from channel to channel. Travels at about 10 m/s.
Term
Mylenated Axon
Definition
Axon type used by projection neurons (motor/sensory commonly). Large insulated gaps between packed groups of ion channels. Insulation created by Schwann cells, and causes action potential to jump past gaps to the groups of ion channels. Signals travel at rates around 150 m/s.
Term
Glutamate
Definition
Amino acid neurotransmitter, major excitatory neurotransmitter in the CNS
Term
GABA
Definition
Major amino Acid neurotransmitter for inhibition in the CNS.
Term
Brain Tumor
Definition
Disease where cells grow uncontrollably in the brain.
Term
Alzheimer's Disease
Definition
Defective Tau proteins leading to the disintegration of microtubules in neurons. Degrades brain function.
Term
Stroke
Definition
Sudden death of brain cells due to lack of blood supply. Divided into Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Stroke.
Term
Ischemic Stroke
Definition
Occurs when oxygen-rich blood flow to the brain is restricted by a blood clot or other blockage.
Term
Hemorrhagic Stroke
Definition
When blood vessels within the brain rupture.
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