Neurotransmitter Worksheet



NEUROTRANSMITTERS

1. In looking at the ion-channel receptors (that is, receptors that respond by opening an ion channel), it seems that they open to allow both Na+ and K+ to move. Will this result in an EPSP or an IPSP? Explain how.

2. What is an agonist?

3. What is an antagonist?

4. Nicotine is an agonist for nicotinic receptors. Based on where these receptors are located (skeletal muscle, heart, lungs, digestive system), describe some possible risks of an overindulgence in nicotine (which is unlikely to occur with cigarettes alone, but could happen if someone is smoking and using "the patch", which supplies a continuous nicotine dose)

5. NE has widespread effects on smooth and cardiac muscle (which we don't consciously control). The activity in some areas (e.g. heart, lungs, brain) is increased, whereas the activity in other areas (stomach, intestines) is decreased. How is it possible for the same neurotransmitter to have such varied effects?

6. It turns out that NE and Ach represent the two different branches of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS), which is a branch that we don't consciously control. Match the appropriate neurotransmitter to each branch of the ANS:

"Fight or Flight":

"Rest and Digest":

8. The central nervous system (CNS) is much more complicated. Virtually all neurotransmitters work there. The following questions all refer to CNS effects:

A. Atropine blocks the parasympathetic (Ach) receptors on the pacemaker cells of the heart. Why would atropine be helpful to someone whose blood pressure is low? [Hint: increasing heart rate will act to increase blood pressure]

B. Cocaine is a dopamine agonist. Dopamine is also a precursor (chemically) to epinephrine and norepinephrine. How do these facts explain some of the effects of cocaine?

C. Serotonin reuptake inhibitors serve as antidepressants. Under the action of a SRI, how is the serotoninergic synapse different? (That is, what happens to serotonin levels?)

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