Understanding the Central Nervous System and Neurotransmitters
Explore the role of the central nervous system and neurotransmitters in the human body. Learn about the function of neurons, synaptic transmission, and the impact of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and GABA. Dive into how medications affecting neurotransmitter levels can influence conditions like depression.
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Presentation Transcript
The brain and neuropsychology: The role of the central nervous system Learning objectives: To understand the role of the central nervous system Do you know anything about the central nervous system?
Introduction Read and highlight the introduction notes on your handout
Human nervous system Central nervous system (CNS) Peripheral nervous system (PNS) Autonomic nervous system Somatic nervous system Spinal cord Brain
The function of neurotransmitters Neurotransmitters: chemicals that are released from neurons (nerve cells) to help them to pass messages from one cell to another Different neurotransmitters have different jobs Neurotransmitter Example of what it does Dopamine Plays a role in attention and learning. Not enough dopamine can make it difficult to concentrate of tasks Serotonin Plays a role in mood. Too little serotonin can make people feel depressed GABA Plays a role in calming us down. When we feel stressed we produce GABA to relax us
Synaptic functioning Messages are passed throughout the nervous system from one neuron to the next through synaptic transmission Synapses are tiny gaps between neurons Chemical messages pass between these
Use your notes on your handout and this diagram to attempt to label parts onto your diagram
Synaptic Functioning 2. This triggers neurotransmitters to be released from the synaptic vesicle 1. Electrical Impulse travels down the axon 3. Neurotransmitters diffuse across the synapse/synaptic cleft 4. Neurotransmitters are taken up by receptors on the next neuron and the impulse continues passing on
Exam question Jana has been given some medication to treat her depression. The drug she has been given will affect her central nervous system by influencing the amount of neurotransmitter serotonin that is available. Explain the role of neurotransmitters, making sure you refer to Jana (2 marks)
Answers Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the nervous system that pass messages between nerve cells and then around the body. In Jana s case the drug is making sure there is more serotonin available in her nervous system which should make her feel less depressed.
