Mastering Neurotransmitters & Synaptic Transmission for the DAT
The nervous system relies on neurotransmitters to send signals between neurons, playing a critical role in cognition, movement, and emotions. Understanding neurotransmitters and synaptic transmission is essential for DAT biology, especially for questions related to neurophysiology and pharmacology.
This blog will explore how synaptic transmission works, the types of neurotransmitters, and their role in the human body.
What is Synaptic Transmission?
Synaptic transmission is the process of signal transfer between neurons. It occurs at the synapse, where a presynaptic neuron communicates with a postsynaptic neuron via neurotransmitters.
Steps in Synaptic Transmission:
Action Potential Arrival: A nerve impulse reaches the axon terminal.
Calcium Ion Influx: Voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels open, allowing Ca²⁺ to enter the presynaptic neuron.
Neurotransmitter Release: Vesicles containing neurotransmitters fuse with the membrane and release their contents into the synaptic cleft.
Neurotransmitter Binding: Neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, triggering a response.
Signal Termination: Neurotransmitters are broken down, reabsorbed, or diffused away to reset the synapse.
Types of Neurotransmitters
Neurotransmitters can be classified into excitatory and inhibitory types.
1. Excitatory Neurotransmitters
These increase the likelihood of an action potential in the postsynaptic neuron.
✅ Examples:
Glutamate → Primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain.
Acetylcholine (ACh) → Involved in muscle movement and learning.
Dopamine → Associated with reward and motivation.
2. Inhibitory Neurotransmitters
These decrease the likelihood of an action potential, preventing overexcitation.
✅ Examples:
GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) → Primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, regulates anxiety.
Glycine → Inhibitory neurotransmitter in the spinal cord.
Serotonin → Modulates mood, appetite, and sleep.
How Drugs Affect Neurotransmission
Many drugs mimic or block neurotransmitters, altering neural signaling.
🧠 Examples of Drug Effects:
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors): Prevent serotonin reabsorption, increasing mood stability (used in depression treatment).
Cocaine: Blocks dopamine reuptake, increasing stimulation and euphoria.
Botulinum Toxin (Botox): Inhibits acetylcholine release, preventing muscle contractions.
DAT-Style Question Example
Which neurotransmitter is most directly involved in the regulation of anxiety and is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain?
A) Dopamine
B) Glutamate
C) GABA
D) Acetylcholine
✅ Answer: C – GABA is the brain’s main inhibitory neurotransmitter and helps regulate anxiety.
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Conclusion
Neurotransmitters play a vital role in the nervous system, influencing movement, mood, and cognition. Understanding synaptic transmission and the effects of neurotransmitters is key to acing the DAT.
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