Neurons and Synapses (Leaving Cert Biology): Flashcards

Specialised nerve cell carrying electrical signals

Carries electrical impulses away from cell body

Receive impulses & carry them towards cell body

Fatty layer insulating impulses for faster transmission

From sense organs to CNS

From CNS to effectors (muscles/glands)

Between sensory & motor neurons in CNS

Where two neurons come into close contact

Tiny space between neurons at synapse

Muscle function, memory, and learning

Reward chemical; mood, memory, sleep, learning, motivation

Depression and Parkinson's disease

Natural painkillers; reduce stress/anxiety/depression

Automatic, involuntary response to stimulus

Increases dopamine & endorphin levels