The word "thermoexcitory" pertains to the stimulation of nerve cells by heat. The phonetic transcription of its spelling is /θɜrmoʊɪksaɪtəri/. The first part, "thermo," refers to heat, while "excitory" indicates stimulation. The word's spelling follows English phonetic rules, with each syllable clearly separated by a vowel. The "th" sound at the beginning is produced by placing the tip of the tongue between the upper and lower teeth. Meanwhile, both "c" sounds are pronounced as a "k" sound, with stress on the fourth syllable.
Thermoexcitory is an adjective used in the field of neurophysiology and refers to a phenomenon or substance that stimulates or enhances the excitability or activity of neurons in response to changes in temperature. The term is derived from combining "thermo," which pertains to heat or temperature, and "excitory," which relates to excitation or increased activity.
In neurophysiology, neurons are the specialized cells responsible for transmitting electrical signals in the nervous system. These neurons can exhibit varied levels of excitability, which determines how likely they are to generate and transmit electrical impulses. Thermoexcitory factors or processes facilitate or intensify this excitability specifically in response to temperature changes. It is important to note that the nature of thermoexcitory response can differ between various neuronal populations, regions of the nervous system, or even across different species.
Thermoexcitory substances can include certain compounds or chemicals that interact with specific temperature-sensitive receptors on neurons, leading to an increased excitatory response. Such substances may promote the generation and propagation of electrical signals, ultimately affecting neurophysiological functions and behaviors influenced by temperature. Thermoexcitory phenomena are significant in understanding sensory perception, thermoregulation, and the intricate interplay between temperature and neuronal activity.
In summary, thermoexcitory pertains to the propensity of neurons to exhibit increased excitability or activity in response to temperature changes. This concept holds significance in elucidating the mechanisms underlying sensory perception and thermoregulatory processes.
Stimulating the production of heat.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.