Neurons' synapses talk in neurotransmitters, and there are lots of neurotransmitters! But what they actually say depends on the post-synaptic receptors that are present to listen. Dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, acetylcholine---the
This video introduces the major classes of protein receptors responsible for receiving neurotransmitters at chemical synapses: fast ionotropic receptors, and slower metabotropic receptors that are able to lead to long-lasting effects. Together, the overall effect of any synapse is jointly determined by the identity of the neurotransmitter, the presence of receptors, and the equilibrium Nernst potential of any relevant ions.
Heads up: We also meet G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) for the first time in this lecture series, and this enormously important family of proteins will up again when we talk about detection of photons (vision) and chemicals (smell).
Playlist for all videos in series: • Introduction to Neuros...
Professor Bing Wen Brunton
www.bingbrunton.com
@bingbrunton on twitter