PSYCH101: Introduction to Psychology

3.1: Neural Communication

• The Noba Project: Sharon Furtak's "Neurons" Page

  Read this selection about neurons. Before moving on to the next assigned reading, you should be comfortable with the following key terms:

  • action potential
    
  • axon
    
  • cell membrane
    
  • dendrite
    
  • electrostatic pressure
    

  In addition, review the critical thinking questions at the close of the chapter to support your understanding of the materials.   

• 3.1.1: What Is a Neuron and Why Is It Important?

  • Khan Academy: "Anatomy of a Neuron" Page

    Watch this video on the anatomy of a neuron. You will see what a neuron looks like and how the neuron transmits signals. Think about how many signals are transmitted at any given time -- in other words, the complex programming, which makes up a human being!
    

• 3.1.2: Action Potentials and Neurotransmitter Release

  • Khan Academy: "Neuron Action Potential Mechanism" Page

    Watch this video about the action potential mechanism, which is essential for neural communication.
    

• 3.1.3: Neurotransmitters and Their Function: Acetylcholine, Dopamine, Serotonin, Norepinephrine, GABA, and Glutamate

  • Khan Academy: "Types of Neurotransmitters" Page

    Watch this video, which will expand your understanding of the types of neurotransmitters and how they excite or inhibit neurons (nerve cells). Each neurotransmitter can directly or indirectly influence neurons in a specific portion of the brain, thereby affecting behavior. There are billions of nerve cells located in the brain, which do not directly touch each other. Nerve cells communicate messages by secreting neurotransmitters. Some common neurotransmitters are acetylcholine, norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin and gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA). Acetylcholine and norepinephrine are excitatory neurotransmitters while dopamine, serotonin, and GABA are inhibitory.