Demyelination, Synapses and Neurotransmission
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Questions and Answers

In Huntington's Disease, the accumulation of Huntingtin protein, which contains excessive CAG trinucleotide repeats, primarily affects which region of the basal ganglia?

  • Striatum (caudate and putamen nuclei) (correct)
  • Globus Pallidus internus (GPi)
  • Substantia Nigra
  • Subthalamic Nuclei

What is the underlying mechanism of hyperkinetic movements such as chorea and athetosis in the early stages of Huntington's Disease?

  • Increased dopamine release from the substantia nigra
  • Decreased inhibition of the thalamus due to reduced GABA release from the Globus Pallidus internus (GPi) (correct)
  • Increased glutamate release from the subthalamic nuclei onto the GPi
  • Direct excitation of motor cortex by the accumulated Huntingtin protein

Which of the following pathophysiological changes contributes to the development of bradykinesia and rigidity in the later stages of Huntington's Disease?

  • Increased GABA release from the GPi onto the thalamus.
  • Destruction of the substantia nigra, leading to decreased dopamine release (correct)
  • Selective sparing of the direct pathway
  • Hyperactivity of the subthalamic nuclei.

A patient with Huntington's Disease exhibits a lack of behavioral and social inhibitions, such as urinating in public. Which area of the brain is most likely affected to cause this symptom?

<p>Striatal neurons projecting to the frontal cortex (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most likely cause of visuospatial deficits, such as the inability to accurately judge distances or sizes, in a patient with Huntington's Disease?

<p>Disruption of striatal neurons projecting to the occipital cortex (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why do patients with Huntington's Disease often develop neuropsychiatric deficits and dementia?

<p>Disruption of striatal neurons projecting to the limbic cortex and hippocampus (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary genetic defect responsible for Huntington's Disease?

<p>CAG trinucleotide repeats on chromosome 4, leading to an accumulation of Huntingtin protein. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A neuroimaging study reveals enlargement of the lateral ventricles in a patient suspected of having Huntington's Disease. What pathological process is most likely responsible for this finding?

<p>Gradual degeneration of subcortical tissue due to Huntingtin protein accumulation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is tetrabenazine contraindicated in late-stage Huntington's disease?

<p>It can worsen motor symptoms, leading to increased disability in advanced stages. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which mechanism primarily explains how excessive glutamate leads to neuronal damage in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)?

<p>Glutamate binding to NMDA receptors causes increased calcium influx, leading to mitochondrial damage and oxidative stress. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with ALS exhibits heightened reflexes and increased muscle tone. Which type of motor neuron is primarily affected to cause these symptoms?

<p>Upper motor neurons (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What physiological change is the MOST direct cause of death in most Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) patients?

<p>Respiratory failure due to diaphragm paralysis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does tetrabenazine reduce the hyperkinetic movements associated with Huntington's disease?

<p>By preventing dopamine packaging into vesicles and antagonizing dopamine receptors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a patient with late-stage ALS, which clinical presentation would be MOST indicative of lower motor neuron involvement?

<p>Pronounced muscle atrophy and fasciculations (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is investigating potential therapeutic targets for ALS. Which of the following mechanisms would MOST likely provide neuroprotection by addressing the underlying pathophysiology of the disease?

<p>Reducing glutamate-induced excitotoxicity (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the effect of Tetrabenazine on the thalamus and cortex in the treatment of Huntington's disease?

<p>Decreased thalamic and cortical excitation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with continuous tonic-clonic seizures, hyperthermia, hypertension, and tachycardia. Which subtype of status epilepticus is the MOST likely cause?

<p>Generalized Convulsive Status Epilepticus (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During an assessment, a patient is observed to be staring blankly and is unresponsive. An EEG confirms epileptiform activity, but there are no apparent motor manifestations. Which type of status epilepticus is the MOST likely cause?

<p>Non-Convulsive Status Epilepticus (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After administering IV benzodiazepines to a patient in status epilepticus with no improvement, which of the following medications should be administered NEXT?

<p>Long-Acting Anticonvulsant (Phenytoin, Valproic Acid, Levitiracetam) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following mechanisms BEST explains why hemorrhagic strokes increase the risk of seizures?

<p>Direct leakage of pro-inflammatory cytokines onto neurons, resulting in oxidative stress and increased neuronal excitability. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A college student is admitted with suspected meningitis. Considering the MOST common infectious causes of meningitis in this age group, which pathogen is the HIGHEST on your differential?

<p>Neisseria Meningitidis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with HIV/AIDS presents with new-onset seizures and is suspected of having meningitis. Which infectious agent is MOST likely responsible?

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

Which of the following BEST describes the mechanism by which hyponatremia leads to seizures?

<p>Decreased extracellular sodium concentration, leading to water influx into neurons and subsequent neuronal swelling/edema. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with seizures and a history of Lyme disease. Which infectious agent is MOST likely responsible for their symptoms?

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

If a neuron's resting membrane potential is -70mV, what alteration to ion channel activity would MOST effectively inhibit neuronal excitability?

<p>Increased chloride influx (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement BEST describes the differential roles of AMPA and NMDA glutamate receptors in neuronal signaling?

<p>AMPA receptors initiate fast synaptic transmission, while NMDA receptors contribute to synaptic plasticity and are blocked by magnesium at resting membrane potential. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A novel drug selectively enhances GABAB receptor activity. Which of the following effects would be MOST expected?

<p>Reduced neurotransmitter release due to presynaptic inhibition of voltage-gated ion channels (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the subsequent scenarios would MOST likely induce a seizure?

<p>Hyponatremia and hypoxia with mitochondrial dysfunction (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a patient experiencing a focal seizure, what is the MOST likely underlying mechanism?

<p>Abnormal hyperexcitability originating in a localized brain region (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with epilepsy is prescribed a medication that enhances the effect of GABA. Which of the following mechanisms of action would be MOST consistent with this treatment?

<p>Increasing chloride influx into neurons, leading to hyperpolarization. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During an experiment, a researcher applies a drug that blocks magnesium's ability to bind to and block NMDA receptors. What is the MOST likely result of this action on the neuron's response to glutamate?

<p>Increased neuron excitability due to enhanced calcium and sodium influx through unblocked NMDA receptors. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of seizure pathophysiology, what is the PRIMARY consequence of synchronized neuronal firing?

<p>Enhanced likelihood of other brain networks depolarizing simultaneously. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does abrupt cessation of benzodiazepines in chronic users lead to central nervous system hyperexcitability?

<p>Decreased GABA transmission and increased sympathetic nervous system activity, resulting in a relative increase in glutamatergic activity. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a history of chronic benzodiazepine abuse presents with anxiety, insomnia, sweating, and tremors. Which additional symptom would suggest progression towards a potentially lethal stage of withdrawal?

<p>Generalized tonic-clonic seizures. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which pharmacological approach is MOST appropriate for managing a patient experiencing severe agitation and autonomic instability during acute alcohol withdrawal?

<p>Intravenous Lorazepam combined with a long-acting benzodiazepine such as Chlordiazepoxide. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A chronic alcoholic is admitted exhibiting severe nausea, abdominal pain, and early signs of alcohol withdrawal. What is the MOST likely cause of their gastrointestinal symptoms?

<p>Underlying chronic pancreatitis. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Delirium Tremens (DTs) is characterized by a range of severe symptoms. Which combination of symptoms indicates a patient is experiencing DTs, requiring immediate and intensive medical intervention?

<p>Severe agitation, visual and tactile hallucinations, and life-threatening autonomic instability occurring 72 hours after the last drink. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does chronic alcohol use lead to decreased GABAA receptor sensitivity?

<p>Downregulation of GABA<del>A</del> receptors due to continuous potentiation of GABA transmission by alcohol. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient undergoing benzodiazepine withdrawal develops severe autonomic instability with rapidly escalating hypertension and tachycardia. What is the MOST critical immediate concern in managing this patient?

<p>Preventing cardiac arrest. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In managing alcohol withdrawal, why are long-acting benzodiazepines like Chlordiazepoxide preferred over short-acting agents for some patients?

<p>They help restore GABA sensitivity and provide a more gradual physiological response. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Neuronal edema leads to increased neuronal excitability and seizure activity by altering electrochemical gradients. Which of the following mechanisms is most directly responsible for this effect?

<p>Increased intracellular sodium concentration and decreased intracellular potassium concentration. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios presents the greatest risk of seizures due to primary polydipsia-induced neuronal edema?

<p>A marathon runner with excessive water intake and no electrolyte replacement. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient taking lithium develops nephrogenic diabetes insipidus. What is the most likely mechanism by which this condition could increase the risk of seizures?

<p>Increased water retention, diluting the concentration of electrolytes and causing neuronal edema. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the mechanism by which MDMA (ecstasy) increases the risk of seizures?

<p>Increased glutamate release leading to neuronal hyperexcitability. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Ketamine-induced seizures differ from those induced by other common illicit drugs because they are uniquely associated with which of the following mechanisms?

<p>Potentiation of norepinephrine and dopamine release in the thalamus. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Bupropion, a commonly prescribed drug for smoking cessation and depression, increases seizure risk through which combined mechanisms?

<p>Dopamine-norepinephrine reuptake inhibition and sodium channel blockade. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Isoniazid, a drug commonly used in the treatment of tuberculosis, can induce seizures via which of the following mechanisms?

<p>Induction of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) deficiency, leading to decreased GABA production and glutamate accumulation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Clozapine, an antipsychotic medication, is known to increase seizure risk. What is the primary mechanism by which clozapine promotes seizure development?

<p>Increased glutamatergic transmission, resulting in neuronal hyperexcitability. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Tetrabenazine mechanism

A drug that decreases dopamine's effects at D2 receptors in the striatum.

D2 Receptors

Dopamine receptors that are inhibitory and when blocked, increase activity in the thalamus and cortex.

Hyperkinetic features in Huntington's Disease

Movement disorders that are decreased by Tetrabenazine via D2 receptor antagonism.

Glutamate toxicity in ALS

Occurs when glutamate binds to NMDA receptors, increasing calcium entry and causing neuron damage.

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Mitochondrial damage in ALS

Leads to anaerobic metabolism and lactic acid build-up, causing neuronal destruction.

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Upper Motor Neuronal Symptoms

Symptoms like hyperreflexia and increased spasticity, commonly seen in ALS.

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Common cause of death in ALS

Respiratory failure due to paralysis of respiratory muscles.

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Lower Motor Neuronal Symptoms

Include muscle atrophy, twitching, weakness, and loss of reflexes, later seen in ALS.

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Huntingtin protein

Protein encoded by CAG repeats on chromosome 4, accumulates in Huntington's Disease.

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Striatum

Part of the basal ganglia most affected by Huntington's Disease, including caudate and putamen.

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Lateral ventricles

Enlargement observed in neuroimaging of Huntington's Disease due to subcortical degeneration.

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Hyperkinetic phenotypes

Early symptoms of Huntington's Disease characterized by chorea and athetosis.

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Chorea

Dance-like, flailing motions seen in Huntington's Disease.

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Bradykinesia

Late stage symptom of Huntington's resulting in slowness of movement, similar to Parkinson's.

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Non-motor symptoms

Behavioural and cognitive changes, like social inappropriateness and visuospatial deficits, seen in Huntington's Disease.

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Neuropsychiatric deficits

Dementia and other cognitive impairments occurring in later stages of Huntington's Disease.

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Neuronal edema

Swelling in neurons affecting sodium and potassium gradients, increasing excitability and seizure risk.

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Primary polydipsia

Excessive water consumption, common in athletes, leading to neuronal edema.

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Drugs causing seizures

Illicit drugs like amphetamines, cocaine, and MDMA increase glutamate release, promoting hyperexcitability.

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Ketamine's unique action

Ketamine causes seizures in an NMDA-independent way by increasing norepinephrine and dopamine release.

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Bupropion

A dopamine-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor that can lower seizure threshold due to sodium blockade effects.

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Flumazenil

A GABAA antagonist used to reverse benzodiazepine effects, increasing seizure risk.

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Isoniazid and seizures

Isoniazid can cause seizures due to pyridoxine deficiency, decreasing GABA and increasing glutamate toxic effects.

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Benzodiazepine withdrawal

Withdrawal can lead to seizures due to loss of GABAergic inhibition, causing neuronal excitability.

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Generalized Convulsive Status Epilepticus

Most common subtype, presents as persistent tonic-clonic seizure with hyperthermia, hypertension, tachycardia.

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Non-Convulsive Status Epilepticus

Subtype with no motor symptoms, EEG shows epileptiform activity; characterized by staring and unresponsiveness.

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Focal Status Epilepticus

Involves specific motor/sensory symptoms based on affected lobe; may progress to generalized seizure.

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Management of Status Epilepticus

Includes ABC's (airway, breathing, circulation) and tiered pharmacologic management with IV Benzodiazepines as first line.

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First-line treatment for seizures

IV Benzodiazepines like Ativan, Midazolam, and Diazepam are the first medications to use.

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Hyponatremia's effect on seizures

Decreased sodium outside neurons causes water influx, leading to neuronal swelling and edema.

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Infectious causes of seizure: Meningitis

Key organisms: Streptococcus Pneumoniae in COPD patients; Neisseria Meningitidis in young adults; Cryptococcus in HIV/AIDS.

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Demyelination and seizures

Widespread demyelination due to JC Virus causes progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy.

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Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms

Acute cessation causes decreased GABA, increased excitability, and sympathetic activity.

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Short-acting benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines like Alprazolam and Lorazepam with rapid onset of withdrawal symptoms.

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Long-acting benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines such as Chlordiazepoxide and Diazepam; symptoms may last weeks after stopping them.

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Early withdrawal symptoms

Initial signs include anxiety, insomnia, sweating, tremors, and heart palpitations.

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Late withdrawal symptoms

Severe symptoms like seizures, hallucinations, paranoia, and autonomic instability that can be lethal.

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Delirium Tremens

Severe form of alcohol withdrawal with life-threatening symptoms including seizures and hallucinations occurring 48-96 hours after last drink.

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Management of benzodiazepine withdrawal

Utilize short-acting benzodiazepines like Lorazepam for treatment and stabilize autonomic functions.

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Management of Delirium Tremens

IV Lorazepam for agitation and long-acting agents to stabilize GABA sensitivity; anesthesia for severe cases.

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Resting Membrane Potential

The electrical charge difference across a neuron's membrane, typically -70 mV.

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AMPA Receptor

A receptor that binds glutamate and allows sodium entry into the post-synaptic neuron.

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NMDA Receptor

A glutamate receptor allowing calcium and sodium entry; blocked by magnesium under resting conditions.

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GABA_A Receptor

A postsynaptic receptor that, when bound by GABA, opens chloride channels leading to hyperpolarization.

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GABA_B Receptor

A metabotropic receptor that inhibits neurotransmitter release via GPCR mechanisms.

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Excessive Activation by Glutamate

Increased glutamate release and receptor expression contributing to seizure activity.

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Decreased Inhibition

Reduction in GABAergic effects, leading to less inhibition of neuronal firing.

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Focal Seizures

Seizures that begin in a specific brain location and may spread, causing localized symptoms.

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Study Notes

Pathophysiology of Demyelination

  • Demyelination is the loss of the myelin sheath that surrounds nerve fibers
  • JC virus polyomavirus (dormant) can reactivate, leading to PML (progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy) in response to immunosuppression
  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV) can cause retinitis, especially in AIDS patients with CD4 counts below 50
  • Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) may be associated with multiple sclerosis

Synaptic Structure

  • A synapse is composed of three main parts:
    • Presynaptic neuron: Releases neurotransmitters
    • Synaptic cleft: Space between neurons where enzymes regulate neurotransmitter activity
    • Postsynaptic neuron: Contains receptors for neurotransmitters
  • Acetylcholinesterase breaks down acetylcholine
  • Monoamine oxidase breaks down norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin

Role of Calcium in Synaptic Transmission

  • Calcium triggers the release of neurotransmitters from vesicles at the presynaptic terminal

Basal Ganglia

  • The basal ganglia is a subcortical brain area involved in motor control and fine-tuning of movements
  • Parts of the basal ganglia include:
    • Globus pallidus (external and internal components)
    • Substantia nigra (pars compacta and pars reticulata)
    • Striatum (caudate and putamen)
    • Subthalamic nuclei

Indirect Pathway of Striatum

  • Without dopamine, the striatum inhibits the GPe, decreasing GABA release onto the subthalamic nuclei
  • Reduced GABA leads to increased glutamate release from the subthalamic nuclei to GPi
  • Increased GABA release from GPi onto the thalamus decreases motor coordination
  • Dopamine binding to D2 receptors inhibits the striatum, decreasing GABA release onto GPe and increasing GABA release onto the subthalamic nuclei, increasing motor coordination.

Direct Pathway of Striatum

  • Striatum inhibits GPi directly, decreasing GABA in the thalamus, resulting in increased motor coordination.
  • Without dopamine, striatum releases less GABA onto the GPi

Parkinson's Disease

  • Parkinson's disease is associated with decreased dopamine release from the substantia nigra pars compacta.
  • Clinical phenotypes include bradykinesia (slow movements), tremors, and gait abnormalities

Huntington's Disease

  • Huntington's disease is associated with the accumulation of the Huntingtin protein due to CAG trinucleotide repeats on chromosome 4.
  • The striatum, (Caudate and putamen) is primarily affected.
  • Classic Neuroimaging findings are enlargement of the lateral ventricles
  • Early stages are characterized by hyperkinetic phenotypes (chorea and athetosis)
  • Management involves tetrabenazine to decrease the effects of dopamine at the D2 receptor

ALS

  • ALS causes progressive loss of motor neurons
  • Respiratory failure is the most common cause of death
  • Riluzole is a pharmacologic treatment that stabilizes the sodium channels on glutamatergic neurons, preventing depolarization and release of glutamate onto NMDA receptors.

Seizure Disorders

  • Several factors can influence seizure activity including:
    • Glutamate binding to the NMDA receptor increases calcium entry and neuronal excitability
    • Isoniazid and clozapine can raise seizure threshold
    • Alcohol withdrawal can disrupt GABA transmission
    • Withdrawal from benzodiazepines can cause hyperactivity.

Stroke

  • Hemorrhagic strokes are more likely to cause seizures than ischemic strokes
  • Infections like meningitis and encephalitis can potentially lead to seizures.
  • Substances like ketamine can lead to seizures in an NMDA-independent way, whilst impacting norepinephrine and dopamine release

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Description

This lesson covers demyelination causes such as JC virus, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It also explores synapse structure including pre/postsynaptic neurons and synaptic cleft. It also explains the role of calcium in synaptic transmission.

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