The behavioural reaction of an animal to a stimulus.

The state of a neuron when it is not exhibiting an action potential. It corresponds to a voltage in which the inside of the neuron is −70 mV with respect to the outside.

Impairment of memory for events that happened prior to the event causing the amnesia.

Amino acids have the same general formula, possessing an amino group, a carboxylic acid group, and a group of atoms that is different for each amino acid; this is called the R group. The shape and properties of a protein, and hence its function, are determined by the R groups of their constituent amino acids.

A subcellular structure composed of RNA and protein, at which protein synthesis takes place.

Ribonucleic acid; biopolymer of ribonucleotides present in all living cells and some viruses. There are three main types of RNA classified on the basis of their function: messenger RNA (mRNA), ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and transfer RNA (tRNA).

A test in which subjects are shown ink blots and asked to describe what images they perceive. It is said to give insights into personality.

The abbreviation for reactive oxygen species, such as hydroxy, nitric and superoxide radicals.

The reaction of an animal’s salivary glands to a stimulus (measured in drops of saliva). Normally, the stimulus is the presence of food in the mouth.

A state of loss of motivation as a result of completing a session of a particular behaviour. For example, after food deprivation an animal might be given food and then achieve a state of satiety as a result of free ingestion.