In this episode, we explore the intricacies of neuronal communication, delving into how neurons transmit signals through synaptic connections using neurotransmitters like glutamate and GABA. We also examine the effects of neurotoxins, such as heavy metals and environmental pollutants, on these critical synaptic pathways, leading to cognitive and neurological impairments. Lastly, we discuss neuroprotective strategies to mitigate neurotoxin exposure and promote optimal brain health.
Topics:
1. Overview of Brain Cell Anatomy
- Types of brain cells: neurons and glial cells.
- Structure of neurons:
- Soma (cell body): contains nucleus and organelles.
- Dendrites: receive signals from other neurons.
- Axon: transmits electrical impulses away from the soma.
- Synaptic terminals: form synapses with target cells.
2. Neuronal Communication
- Synapse structure:
- Presynaptic terminal.
- Synaptic cleft.
- Postsynaptic membrane.
- Neurotransmitters:
- Role in neuronal communication.
- Excitatory neurotransmitters (e.g., glutamate).
- Inhibitory neurotransmitters (e.g., GABA).
3. Summary of Neuronal Communication
- Recap of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters.
- Importance of maintaining proper neuronal communication.
4. Neurotoxins and Their Effects
- Types of neurotoxins:
- Heavy metals (e.g., lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, aluminum).
- Chemical neurotoxins (e.g., organophosphates, solvents).
- Biological toxins (e.g., mycotoxins).
- Environmental pollutants (e.g., PCBs, dioxins).
- Mechanisms of neurotoxin damage:
- Disruption of neurotransmitter release.
- Impairment of receptor function.
- Interference with ion channel operation.
5. Example: Mercury's Impact on Cognitive Function
- Pathway of mercury exposure and accumulation in the brain.
- Disruption of calcium homeostasis and synaptic transmission.
- Resulting cognitive impairments.
6. Strategies to Reduce Neurotoxin Exposure
- Nutrition:
- Opting for organic produce.
- Washing produce properly.
- Avoiding MSG and aspartame.
- Limiting aluminum exposure (baking powder).
- Evaluating cookware.
- Avoiding farmed salmon.
- Water and air quality:
- Using water filtration to remove fluoride.
- Choosing fluoride-free toothpaste.
- Improving air quality and mold remediation.
- Using air-purifying plants (e.g., aloe vera, English ivy).
- Reducing exposure to places with highly-concentrated neurotoxic chemicals (e.g., nail salons).
Thank you to our episode sponsor:
Tremetes, LLC
Use code CHLOE15 to get 15% off Tremetes' Turkey Tail
Thanks for tuning in!
Get Chloe's Book Today! "75 Gut-Healing Strategies & Biohacks"
Follow Chloe on Instagram @synthesisofwellness
Follow Chloe on TikTok @chloe_c_porter
Visit synthesisofwellness.com to purchase products, subscribe to our mailing list, and more!
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By Chloe Porter
4.8
6565 ratings
In this episode, we explore the intricacies of neuronal communication, delving into how neurons transmit signals through synaptic connections using neurotransmitters like glutamate and GABA. We also examine the effects of neurotoxins, such as heavy metals and environmental pollutants, on these critical synaptic pathways, leading to cognitive and neurological impairments. Lastly, we discuss neuroprotective strategies to mitigate neurotoxin exposure and promote optimal brain health.
Topics:
1. Overview of Brain Cell Anatomy
- Types of brain cells: neurons and glial cells.
- Structure of neurons:
- Soma (cell body): contains nucleus and organelles.
- Dendrites: receive signals from other neurons.
- Axon: transmits electrical impulses away from the soma.
- Synaptic terminals: form synapses with target cells.
2. Neuronal Communication
- Synapse structure:
- Presynaptic terminal.
- Synaptic cleft.
- Postsynaptic membrane.
- Neurotransmitters:
- Role in neuronal communication.
- Excitatory neurotransmitters (e.g., glutamate).
- Inhibitory neurotransmitters (e.g., GABA).
3. Summary of Neuronal Communication
- Recap of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters.
- Importance of maintaining proper neuronal communication.
4. Neurotoxins and Their Effects
- Types of neurotoxins:
- Heavy metals (e.g., lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, aluminum).
- Chemical neurotoxins (e.g., organophosphates, solvents).
- Biological toxins (e.g., mycotoxins).
- Environmental pollutants (e.g., PCBs, dioxins).
- Mechanisms of neurotoxin damage:
- Disruption of neurotransmitter release.
- Impairment of receptor function.
- Interference with ion channel operation.
5. Example: Mercury's Impact on Cognitive Function
- Pathway of mercury exposure and accumulation in the brain.
- Disruption of calcium homeostasis and synaptic transmission.
- Resulting cognitive impairments.
6. Strategies to Reduce Neurotoxin Exposure
- Nutrition:
- Opting for organic produce.
- Washing produce properly.
- Avoiding MSG and aspartame.
- Limiting aluminum exposure (baking powder).
- Evaluating cookware.
- Avoiding farmed salmon.
- Water and air quality:
- Using water filtration to remove fluoride.
- Choosing fluoride-free toothpaste.
- Improving air quality and mold remediation.
- Using air-purifying plants (e.g., aloe vera, English ivy).
- Reducing exposure to places with highly-concentrated neurotoxic chemicals (e.g., nail salons).
Thank you to our episode sponsor:
Tremetes, LLC
Use code CHLOE15 to get 15% off Tremetes' Turkey Tail
Thanks for tuning in!
Get Chloe's Book Today! "75 Gut-Healing Strategies & Biohacks"
Follow Chloe on Instagram @synthesisofwellness
Follow Chloe on TikTok @chloe_c_porter
Visit synthesisofwellness.com to purchase products, subscribe to our mailing list, and more!
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