Acetylcholine: Neurotransmitter

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Questions and Answers

Which mechanism primarily terminates the action of acetylcholine (ACh) in the synaptic cleft?

  • Diffusion away from the synapse followed by degradation in the bloodstream.
  • Metabolism by monoamine oxidase (MAO) within the synaptic cleft.
  • Reuptake into the presynaptic neuron via specific transporter proteins.
  • Breakdown by acetylcholinesterase into choline and acetate. (correct)

In Alzheimer's disease, the decline in cognitive function is closely associated with the reduced levels of which neurotransmitter?

  • Norepinephrine
  • Dopamine
  • Acetylcholine (correct)
  • Serotonin

The rewarding and reinforcing effects of addictive drugs are most directly linked to the activity of which neurotransmitter system in the brain?

  • Norepinephrine
  • GABA
  • Serotonin
  • Dopamine (correct)

Which of the following best describes the role of acetylcholine in the autonomic nervous system?

<p>Mediates parasympathetic nervous system activity, regulating digestion and reducing heart rate. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Myasthenia Gravis, an autoimmune disorder causing muscle weakness, is characterized by:

<p>Antibodies against acetylcholine receptors. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During intense physical activity, the feeling of 'runner's high' is most associated with the release of:

<p>Endorphins (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A new anxiolytic drug is developed that selectively enhances the function of GABA-B receptors. Which of the following mechanisms is most likely responsible for its anxiolytic effects?

<p>Activation of G protein-coupled receptors leading to prolonged hyperpolarization. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is prescribed a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) to treat depression. Which of the following mechanisms directly contributes to the therapeutic effects of this medication?

<p>Prolonged presence of serotonin in the synapse. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A previously healthy individual suddenly experiences a stroke, leading to significant neuronal damage due to excitotoxicity. Which of the following neurotransmitters is most directly implicated in this form of neuronal injury?

<p>Glutamate (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A person is experiencing heightened anxiety and is prescribed a medication that enhances the effects of GABA. What is the primary mechanism through which GABA reduces anxiety?

<p>By hyperpolarizing neurons, making them less likely to fire. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During a stressful event, an individual's heart rate and blood pressure increase significantly. Which neurotransmitter is most directly responsible for mediating these physiological responses?

<p>Epinephrine/Norepinephrine (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which receptors do endorphins bind producing pain relief, euphoria, and mood regulation.?

<p>Mu (μ), delta (δ), and kappa (κ) opioid receptors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Dopamine

Neurotransmitter for reward, motivation, and motor control. Made in substantia nigra and VTA.

Mesolimbic Pathway

Pathway involved in reward and addiction related to dopamine

Nigrostriatal Pathway

Pathway vital for motor control; dopamine loss here causes Parkinson's.

Serotonin

Neurotransmitter affecting mood, sleep, and appetite.

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Glutamate

Primary excitatory neurotransmitter; crucial for learning and memory.

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Excitotoxicity

Excessive glutamate release leading to neuronal damage.

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GABA

Primary inhibitory neurotransmitter; reduces neuronal excitability.

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Epinephrine/Norepinephrine

Increases heart rate, blood pressure, and energy during stress.

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Alertness

A neurotransmitter's function that contributes to wakefulness and attention

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Locus Coeruleus

System where norepinephrine is produced in the brain.

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Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers transmitting signals across synapses to target neurons, muscle cells, or gland cells.

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Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neurotransmitter crucial for muscle movement, cognitive function, and autonomic nervous system regulation.

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ACh Synthesis

Synthesized from choline and acetyl-CoA by choline acetyltransferase.

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ACh Function

Stimulates muscle contraction at the neuromuscular junction and is involved in attention, learning, and memory in the brain.

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Acetylcholinesterase

Rapidly breaks down ACh in the synaptic cleft, terminating its action.

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Alzheimer's & ACh

Reduced ACh levels associated with cognitive decline.

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Endorphins

Endogenous opioid neuropeptides that act as natural analgesics, reducing pain perception and contributing to feelings of well-being.

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Endorphin Synthesis

Endorphins are produced from proopiomelanocortin (POMC).

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Endorphin Function

Act as natural analgesics, reduce pain, and contribute to mood regulation and stress response.

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Study Notes

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