Anatomy and Physiology

Neurons or nerve cell is responsible for receiving stimuli, conducting action potentials and
transmitting signals to other neurons or effector organs. It is composed of three parts: a cell body,
dendrites, and an axon.

The cell body contains a single nucleus and is the site of general cell functions. Like the
other cell, the nucleus of the neuron is the source of information for gene expression. Extensive
rough endoplasmic reticulum, a Golgi apparatus and mitochondria surround the nucleus. Large
number of neuro filaments and microtubules organize the cytoplasm into distinct areas. Dendrites
are short, often highly branching cytoplasmic extensions that are tapered in their bases at the
neuron cell body. Dendrites usually receive other information from other neurons and transmit the
information toward the neuron cell body. Each neuron has an axon, a single long process extending
from the neuron cell body. Each axon has a uniform diameter and may vary in length from a few
millimeters to more than a meter. Axons of sensory neurons conducts action potentials towards
the CNS, and axons of motor neurons conducts action potentials away the CNS.

Dendrites and axons are nerve cell processes(extensions). Dendrites usually receive stimuli
leading to electrical changes that either increase or decrease action potential in the neuron’s axon.
Action potential usually originate at the base of the axon where it joins the cell body and travel to
the end of the axon. (Vanputte et.al, 2016)
Acetylcholine – involved in voluntary movement, learning, memory, and sleep. Too much
acetylcholine is associated with depression.

Dopamine –correlated with movement, attention, and learning. Too much dopamine has been
associated with schizophrenia, and a decrease is associated with some forms of depression as
well as the muscular rigidity and tremors found in Parkinson’s disease.

Norepinephrine – associated with eating, alertness. Decrease in norepinephrine has been

associated with depression, while an excess has been associated with schizophrenia.

Epinephrine –involved in energy, and glucose metabolism. Decrease in epinephrine has been
associated with depression.

Serotonin –plays a role in mood, sleep, appetite, and impulsive and aggressive behavior.
Decrease in serotonin is associated with depression and some anxiety disorders, especially
obsessive-compulsive disorder. Some antidepressant medications increase the availability of
serotonin at the receptor sites.

GABA (Gamma-Amino Butyric Acid) –inhibits excitation and anxiety. Decrease in GABA
is associated with anxiety and anxiety disorders. Some antianxiety medication increases
GABA at the receptor sites.

Endorphins –involved in pain relief and feelings of pleasure and contentedness.