NMDA receptors are neurotransmitter receptors located in post-synaptic neuron membranes. Made up of five subunits with similar amino acid sequence to other glutamate receptors. Structure varies by maturity, location, and species
PC12 cells originate from rat adrenal medulla's pheochromocytoma. Developed by Greene and Tischler in 1976. Contains neuroblastic and eosinophilic cells. Can differentiate into neuron-like cells
Glutamate is the most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in vertebrate nervous system. Accounts for over 90% of synaptic connections in human brain. Cannot cross blood-brain barrier without assistance. Synthesized from glutamine in CNS by glutaminase enzyme
Olfactory nerve (CN I) transmits smell information to central nervous system. Originates in upper nasal cavity olfactory mucosa. Travels through cribriform plate to olfactory bulb. Shortest of twelve cranial nerves, not originating from brainstem
Soma is the bulbous, non-process portion of neurons containing the cell nucleus. Soma can refer to neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia. Neuron sizes range from 5 micrometres to over 10 millimetres
Four main dopaminergic pathways: mesolimbic, mesocortical, nigrostriatal, and tuberoinfundibular. Mesocorticolimbic system includes mesolimbic and mesocortical pathways. Pathways originate in ventral tegmental area (VTA) in midbrain