Biochemistry Test for CNS Module

Excess calcium accumulation can disrupt nerve impulse transmission by interfering with the flow of ions across the nerve cell membrane.

The blood-brain barrier restricts the entry of many amino acids into the brain, protecting it from harmful substances. However, Isoleucine is an exception and can readily cross the barrier.

Niemann-Pick disease is characterized by a buildup of sphingomyelin, a lipid found in cell membranes. This accumulation can result in severe mental retardation.

Acetylcholine is unique among the listed neurotransmitters because it primarily acts as an excitatory neurotransmitter. Depending on the receptor it binds to, other neurotransmitters can exhibit both excitatory and inhibitory effects.

Vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in the metabolism of neurotransmitters. While other vitamins influence various bodily functions, vitamin B6 has a more direct impact on the nervous system.

When GABA binds to its GABA-B receptor, it causes the closure of potassium channels. This action contributes to the inhibitory effects of GABA in the nervous system.

Neurons primarily rely on glucose as their energy source, but they can also utilize ketone bodies under certain conditions, such as prolonged fasting or in the presence of diabetes. They are unable to synthesize ketone bodies themselves.

Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a neurological disorder characterized by memory impairment and confusion, is caused by a deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1). Thiamine is essential for carbohydrate metabolism, and its deficiency can disrupt brain function.

Neurons have limited capacity for mitochondrial beta-oxidation of fatty acids, which is a slower process compared to glucose metabolism. Moreover, the susceptibility of neurons to oxidative damage makes them less reliant on fatty acids as energy sources. Finally, fatty acids are not a suitable energy source during hypoxia because they require oxygen for their metabolism.

Glycine is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the spinal cord and brain stem, playing a critical role in regulating motor control and sensory processing.

GLUT-3 is the primary glucose transporter in neurons, ensuring a continuous supply of glucose for their energy requirements. This transporter is highly efficient in taking up glucose from the bloodstream, supporting the brain's reliance on glucose metabolism.

Histamine, a neurotransmitter involved in inflammatory responses, plays a crucial role in mediating allergic reactions, immune responses, and inflammation. It acts on various receptors in the brain and throughout the body, promoting inflammation.

Mucolipidoses-II, a lysosomal storage disorder, is characterized by impaired psychomotor development and is caused by a deficiency of UDP-GlcNAc phosphotransferase. This specific enzyme is involved in carbohydrate metabolism, its deficiency disrupts lysosomal function leading to impaired development.