Synaptic transmission is the process by which a neuron communicates with an adjacent one. It begins when an action potential reaches the axon terminal, causing neurotransmitters to be released into the synaptic cleft. These chemicals then travel across the synapse and bind to receptors on the next neuron's dendrites. If this signal is potent enough, it will trigger a new action potential, thus propagating the nerve impulse.

Synaptic Transmission

Transmitters and drugs on injury or psychiatric illness

Aspects of neurotransmitters

- Drugs
- Drug effects
- Injury or psychiatric illness
- Drug abuse and addiction

Aspects of neuropharmacology

The brain is an electrochemical system that runs on neurochemistry (neurotransmitters). The brain can be altered using neuropharmacology (drugs). 

Rutgers University

Grinnell College

The study of the biological mechanisms that underlie behavior, including its physiological and anatomical foundations, is fundamental to many areas of psychology. Key areas of study include functional neural anatomy, neurophysiology, neurotransmitters and neuropharmacology, and the role of hormones and the brain.

Biological Foundations of Behavior

Breedlove, S. & Watson, N. (2017). Behavioral neuroscience, eighth edition. Oxford University Press.

Behavioral Neuroscience 8th Edition

Hormones influence behavior, appetites, emotional levels, and aspects of aging in addition to many other behaviors and development. 


Hormones and the brain

Neurotransmitter and Neuropharmacology

The study of how information is transmitted throughout the nervous system using electrical and chemical signals.

Neurophysiology

Everything that defines you as a person is controlled by the neural structures within your brain and body. There are a variety of ways to identify the structures in the brain, starting with cellular and leading into major anatomical divisions. 

Functional Neural Anatomy

Based on the case study provided, analyze the relationship between the location of the brain injury and the observed changes in the individual's behavior. Explain which general functions were likely disrupted, leading to these specific behavioral outcomes.

Linking Brain Injury to Behavioral Change

The relationship between the human body's inner biological mechanisms and its external expressions can be compared to a technological device. Just as a device's internal workings (such as microchips and circuits) are distinct from its external user interface, human physiological processes (such as the firing of neurons) operate differently from the observable behaviors and thoughts they produce.

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