Biology Lab Report: Nervous System Anatomy and Ion Channel Mechanisms

This lab report delves into the anatomy and function of the human nervous system, beginning with an overview of ligand-gated ion channels. These channels, crucial for nerve signal transmission, are described in terms of their structure and how they respond to neurotransmitters. The report then transitions to the broader organization of the nervous system, differentiating between the autonomic and somatic nervous systems. The autonomic nervous system is further broken down into the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, detailing their roles and the neurotransmitters involved (noradrenaline and acetylcholine). The somatic nervous system's function in voluntary muscle movement is also discussed, highlighting the role of acetylcholine. The report references Khan Academy as a source for understanding the concepts.

Running Head: LAB 0
ANATOMY
2
FEBRUARY 18, 2020

LAB 1
Lab 1
Ligand-Gated Ion Channels are also called as Ion channel linked receptors. It is a type
of membrane receptors apart from G-protein coupled and enzyme-linked receptor. It is
transmembrane ion channel which opens and closes in response to the chemical signals such
as ligand or neurotransmitter messengers. Ion channel has a curve or an allosteric site which
allows the ligand to bind with it. Since, the shape of ligand is complementary with the
allosteric site present on the ion channel thus it allows only specific messenger ligands to
bind. This binding results in alteration of the protein conformation and opens up the channel
to let ions such as Na, K, Ca, Cl to move through the channel. The exchange of ions from
extracellular to intracellular environment of plasma membrane creates electrical signal inside
the cell. This causes human nervous system to react quickly to stimuli (Khan Academy,
2015).
Lab 2
The human nervous system is divided into two parts autonomic and somatic nervous
system. The autonomic nervous system is involuntary nervous system, which is not in human
control while somatic nervous system is voluntary nervous system.
Autonomic system is classified into sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system.
Sympathetic nervous system works in fright and flight responses by releasing noradrenaline
or norepinephrine hormone. Parasympathetic nervous system works in balance with
sympathetic nervous system and helps in carrying out essential involuntary body functions
with help of neurotransmitter called as acetylcholine (ACh) such as digestion during sleep
and other relaxed body conditions. While, somatic nervous system helps in controlling
voluntary muscles movements in the body with the help of acetylcholine (ACh) (Khan
Academy, 2015).

LAB 2
References
Khan Academy. (2015, 07 16). Autonomic vs somatic nervous system. Retrieved from Khan
Academy: https://www.khanacademy.org/science/health-and-medicine/human-
anatomy-and-physiology/introduction-to-muscles/v/autonomic-somatic-nervous-
system
Khan Academy. (2015, 05 21). Ligand Gated Ion Channel. Retrieved from Khan Academy:
https://www.khanacademy.org/test-prep/nclex-rn/nervous-system-phy/rn-
biosignaling/v/ligand-gated-ion-channels