Neuroscience of Movement Disorders
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Questions and Answers

In the context of the provided information, what is the primary effect of a decrease in dopamine levels on the indirect pathway in the striatum?

  • Increased inhibition of the subthalamic nucleus
  • Increased activity of the globus pallidus externa (Gpe)
  • Decreased inhibition of the thalamus and cortex (correct)
  • Decreased activity of the globus pallidus interna (Gpi)
  • Which of the following statements about the use of neuroleptics/antipsychotics in Huntington's Disease is accurate?

  • Neuroleptics primarily target the direct pathway in the basal ganglia.
  • Neuroleptics are highly effective in treating late-stage Huntington's symptoms.
  • Neuroleptics can contribute to increased risk of suicidal ideation in some patients. (correct)
  • Neuroleptics are primarily effective in managing bradykinesia and rigidity.
  • Which of the following medications are commonly used to manage late-stage Huntington's symptoms associated with bradykinesia and rigidity?

  • Dopamine agonists and MAO-B inhibitors
  • Antidepressants and anticonvulsants
  • Levodopa/Carbidopa and Amantadine (correct)
  • Olanzapine and Quetiapine
  • How does Olanzapine/Quetiapine work to manage Huntington's symptoms?

    <p>By blocking dopamine and serotonin receptors (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a distinguishing feature of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) compared to Huntington's Disease and Parkinson's Disease?

    <p>ALS primarily affects the lower motor neurons. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following medications is unique in its ability to enhance dopamine release and inhibit glutamatergic effects?

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

    What is the primary mechanism by which MAO-B inhibitors, such as Selegiline and Rasagiline, improve symptoms in Parkinson's Disease?

    <p>They inhibit the breakdown of dopamine. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following factors, when present, may offer potential protection against the development or severity of Parkinson's Disease?

    <p>Regular exercise (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary mechanism of action for caffeine in its potential role against Parkinson's Disease?

    <p>It acts as an adenosine A2A receptor antagonist. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the genetic basis of Huntington's Disease?

    <p>A mutation in the HTT gene on chromosome 4 characterized by CAG trinucleotide repeats. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the number of CAG trinucleotide repeats in the HTT gene relate to the severity of Huntington's Disease?

    <p>More repeats lead to an earlier onset and a more severe form. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following accurately describes the inheritance pattern of Huntington's Disease?

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

    Why is it difficult to determine if nicotine alone has a protective effect against Parkinson's Disease based on clinical trials?

    <p>It is possible that other factors in tobacco plants, not nicotine itself, may contribute to the protective effect. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a proposed mechanism of ALS development?

    <p>Increased Production of Acetylcholine (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) in the context of ALS?

    <p>Destroy free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and damage to cellular components. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main consequence of increased NMDA receptor binding in ALS?

    <p>Increased calcium influx into neurons, leading to mitochondrial damage and potential neuronal death. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does mitochondrial dysfunction contribute to axonal transport dysfunction in ALS?

    <p>Mitochondrial dysfunction leads to a decrease in ATP production, essential for axonal transport. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do inactivating mutations in the SOD1 gene contribute to ALS?

    <p>They lead to decreased expression of functional SOD1, increasing oxidative stress and potential neuronal death. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can microglial cell activation contribute to ALS pathology?

    <p>Microglial cells release pro-inflammatory cytokines, potentially exacerbating neuronal damage. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main evidence suggesting that ALS affects both upper and lower motor neurons?

    <p>The presence of both muscle weakness and spasticity in ALS patients. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Choose the most appropriate term to describe the prevalence of ALS in the general population.

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

    What is the mechanism of action of riluzole in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?

    <p>Riluzole blocks glutamate transmission by both stabilizing voltage-gated sodium channels and acting as a non-competitive antagonist of NMDA receptors. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements accurately describes the mechanism of tetrabenazine in managing Huntington's chorea?

    <p>Tetrabenazine acts on the direct pathway, reducing dopamine release and alleviating the hyperkinetic symptoms. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a symptom characteristic of upper motor neuron involvement in ALS?

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

    What is the primary consequence of the disruption of striatal neurons projecting to the frontal cortex in Huntington's disease?

    <p>A lack of behavioral and social inhibitions, potentially leading to impulsive and inappropriate behavior. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary mechanism of action of edaravone in ALS?

    <p>Edaravone acts as a free radical scavenger, reducing oxidative damage to neurons. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary underlying cause of muscle atrophy in ALS?

    <p>Gradual denervation due to neuronal death (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the early phases of Huntington's disease?

    <p>Increased GABA release from the striatum onto the globus pallidus externus. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which drug is ONLY used for SOD1-associated ALS?

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

    What is the primary mechanism by which the indirect pathway contributes to the hyperkinetic phenotypes of Huntington's disease?

    <p>Decreased inhibition of the subthalamic nucleus, leading to enhanced glutamate release and an increase in thalamic activity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most frequent cause of death in patients with ALS?

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

    What is the primary pathological change observed in the striatum during the early phases of Huntington's disease?

    <p>Decreased GABA release, leading to enhanced activity in the indirect pathway and hyperkinetic movements. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the role of the subthalamic nucleus in the pathophysiology of Huntington's disease?

    <p>It receives excitatory input from the striatum and projects to the globus pallidus internus, regulating thalamic activity. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic symptom of late-stage ALS?

    <p>Difficulty swallowing (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the benefit of combining riluzole and edaravone in the treatment of ALS?

    <p>All of the above. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a characteristic of the late phases of Huntington's disease?

    <p>Enhanced activity of the direct pathway, contributing to bradykinesia and rigidity. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes the role of the globus pallidus internus (GPi) in regulating thalamic activity?

    <p>The GPi receives inhibitory input from the direct pathway and excitatory input from the indirect pathway, thus controlling the overall activity of the thalamus. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these is a cause of demyelination that can lead to the development of peripheral neuropathy?

    <p>Vitamin B12 Deficiency (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these causes of demyelination is known to primarily affect the peripheral nervous system?

    <p>Diabetic Neuropathy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these diseases causes demyelination by directly targeting gangliosides in myelin?

    <p>Guillain-Barre Syndrome (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which viral infection is most commonly associated with the development of retinitis-associated blindness?

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

    Which of these is a possible cause of demyelination in the brain stem nuclei, resulting in autonomic instability?

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

    Which demyelinating disease is characterized by the formation of oligoclonal IgG?

    <p>Multiple Sclerosis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor contributes to demyelination by causing increased glutamate levels and decreased GABA conversion?

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

    Which of these is NOT a cause of demyelination discussed in the content?

    <p>Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these is a potential consequence of demyelination?

    <p>Decreased activation of structures involving myelinated neurons (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these describes the mechanism by which demyelination affects nerve impulse transmission?

    <p>Disrupted saltatory conduction (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements regarding the role of calcium in neurotransmitter release is TRUE?

    <p>Calcium promotes the docking and release of neurotransmitters. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary protein involved in the formation of myelin?

    <p>Myelin Basic Protein (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these is NOT a structural component of the synaptic cleft?

    <p>Axon terminal (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of connection between neurons is considered the strongest?

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

    Which of these describes the process of impaired connectivity among neurons?

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

    Which of these is an example of a proteolytic enzyme found in the synaptic cleft?

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

    Flashcards

    MAOI

    Monoamine oxidase inhibitors that increase dopamine levels by downregulating MAO-B.

    Selegiline

    A MAO-B inhibitor that helps increase dopamine levels.

    Rasagiline

    Another MAO-B inhibitor used in Parkinson's to boost dopamine.

    Amantadine

    A drug that enhances dopamine release and inhibits glutamatergic effects.

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    Nicotine's role in PD

    May have neuroprotective effects but lacks strong clinical support for PD risk reduction.

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    Caffeine's mechanism

    Acts as an adenosine A2A receptor antagonist, aiding dopaminergic activity.

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    CAG repeats in Huntington's

    CAG trinucleotide repeats in the HTT gene cause Huntington’s disease; more repeats indicate earlier onset.

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    Inheritance pattern of Huntington’s Disease

    Autosomal dominant; one mutated gene copy from either parent can transmit the disorder.

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    Indirect Pathway

    In early phases of Huntington’s Disease involving striatum destruction, leading to hyperkinetic movements.

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    Hyperkinetic Phenotypes

    Abnormal excessive movements including chorea and athetosis seen in Huntington’s Disease.

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    Chorea

    Dance-like flailing motions characteristic of hyperkinetic disorders.

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    Athetosis

    Writhing, worm-like movements in limbs or trunk also seen in hyperkinetic disorders.

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    Direct Pathway

    Part of movement control that is more prominent in late phases, leading to bradykinesia and rigidity.

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    Non-Motor Manifestations

    Symptoms like behavioral, social, and cognitive dysfunction due to Huntington’s Disease.

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    Tetrabenazine

    Medication that prevents dopaminergic effects by inhibiting dopamine release and blocking receptors.

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    Neuropsychiatric Deficits

    Cognitive and emotional problems in Huntington’s Disease, such as depression and aggression.

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    D2 Binding Decrease

    Reduction of dopamine D2 receptor activity in the striatum can impact movement control.

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    Indirect Pathway Activity

    A neural pathway that inhibits unwanted movements; decreased activity leads to imbalance in movement regulation.

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    GABA Release Increase

    Enhanced inhibition in the brain leading to reduced activity in the thalamus and cortex, affecting motor function.

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    Olanzapine/Quetiapine

    Antipsychotic medications that block D2 and 5-HT2A receptors, useful in managing agitation in patients.

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    Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

    A neurodegenerative disease affecting both upper and lower motor neurons, leading to progressive weakness.

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    Myelin Sheath

    A structure made of glycolipids and proteins that insulates the axon of a neuron.

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    Saltatory Conduction

    The rapid transmission of electrical impulses along myelinated neurons by jumping between nodes.

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    Demyelination

    The loss of myelin sheath surrounding neurons, leading to decreased electrical transmission.

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    Ischemic Damage

    Tissue damage caused by reduced blood flow leading to inflammation and potential demyelination.

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    Guillain-Barre Syndrome

    An autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks myelin, causing weakness and loss of reflexes.

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    Vitamin B12 Deficiency

    A lack of vitamin B12 that can lead to peripheral neuropathy and pernicious anemia.

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    Multiple Sclerosis

    A chronic disease characterized by the immune attack on myelin, leading to neurological symptoms.

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    Pre-synaptic Neuron

    The neuron that releases neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft.

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    Synaptic Cleft

    The gap between the pre-synaptic and post-synaptic neuron where neurotransmitter action occurs.

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    Post-synaptic Neuron

    The neuron that receives neurotransmitters from the synaptic cleft.

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    Neurotransmitter Release

    The process by which neurotransmitters are secreted from the pre-synaptic neuron, dependent on calcium.

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    Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML)

    A demyelinating disease caused by the JC Virus affecting the brain, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

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    Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM)

    A demyelinating condition that follows severe viral infections, presenting with inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.

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    Impaired Neurotransmitter Transmission

    Effects arising from structural aberrations affecting neurotransmitter release, degradation, or receptor function.

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    Epidemiology of ALS

    90-95% of ALS cases are sporadic; more common in Caucasian males in their 70s.

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    Risk Factors for ALS

    Higher risk in those with construction jobs, military history, or exposure to electromagnetic fields.

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    Glutamate Toxicity

    Increased glutamate binding to NMDA receptors leads to neuronal calcium influx and death.

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    Mitochondrial Dysfunction in ALS

    Mutations in SOD1 gene lead to decreased SOD1 function and increased oxidative stress.

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    Role of SOD1

    SOD1 normally reduces free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative damage.

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    Axonal Transport Dysfunction

    Inadequate ATP production from mitochondria impairs axonal transport and action potential propagation.

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    Microglial Cell Activation

    Increased activation due to pro-inflammatory cytokines can damage neurons.

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    Clinical Phenotype of ALS

    Presents with both upper and lower motor neuron symptoms.

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    Upper Motor Neuron Symptoms

    Characteristics include hyperreflexia, increased spasticity, and uncontrollable emotional expressions.

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    Lower Motor Neuron Symptoms

    Includes muscle atrophy, twitches, weakness that leads to paralysis, and loss of reflexes.

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    Slurred Speech Symptoms

    Involves difficulty speaking, which can evolve to a complete loss of vocalization.

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    Respiratory Failure as Cause of Death

    The most common cause of death in affected individuals due to muscle paralysis affecting breathing.

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    Riluzole

    A drug that blocks glutamate transmission, stabilizes neurons, and may prolong survival by reducing damage.

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    Mechanism of Riluzole

    Works by preventing glutamate release and binding to NMDA receptors, reducing damage and promoting survival.

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    Edaravone

    A free-radical scavenger that reduces oxidative damage to neurons, exact mechanism unknown.

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    Tofersen

    A therapy specifically for SOD1-associated ALS that reduces abnormal protein synthesis to prevent neuronal death.

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    Study Notes

    Neuro-Pathology I: Neurodegenerative Disorders

    • This presentation covers neurodegenerative disorders, which involve the loss of functional neurons.
    • Neurodegenerative disorders result in a qualitative and/or quantitative loss of functional neurons throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems.
    • This loss is characterized by demyelination, impairment of neurotransmitter transmission, impairment of inter-neuronal connections, and chronic imbalances in electrolyte concentrations.

    Demyelination of Neurons

    • Myelin sheaths are glycolipid and protein-based structures surrounding axons.
    • Myelin acts as an insulator, regulating the transmission of charge.
    • Demyelination disrupts the transmission of electrical information.
    • Demyelination leads to decreased activation of structures involved in myelinated neuron function.
    • Various factors can lead to demyelination, including infectious agents, vascular events, and inflammatory/autoimmune conditions.

    Causes of Demyelination

    • Vascular: Ischemic damage from vascular events.
    • Infectious: Viral (HIV/AIDS, JC Virus, Herpesviruses, Epstein-Barr Virus), bacterial, and parasitic
    • Inflammatory/Autoimmune: Conditions like Guillain-Barre Syndrome, Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis.
    • Other factors include metabolic/vitamin deficiencies (e.g., Vitamin B12 deficiency, Diabetes Mellitus), illicit drugs/alcohol (Chronic alcohol consumption, Heroin, Opioids), and pharmacologic agents (Isoniazid, Vinblastine, Vincristine, Cisplatin).

    Impaired Neurotransmitter Transmission

    • Neurotransmitter release is highly dependent on calcium.
    • Vesicular docking and release of neurotransmitters occur through voltage-gated calcium channels.
    • The synaptic cleft is the space between pre- and post-synaptic neurons, containing enzymes that regulate neurotransmitter activity (e.g., acetylcholinesterase).
    • Post-synaptic neurons contain receptors for the neurotransmitter.
    • Aberrations in any of these components (pre-synaptic neuron, synaptic cleft, post-synaptic neuron/structure) can disrupt neurotransmitter transmission.

    Impairment of Inter-Neuronal Connections

    • Axodendritic, axosomatic, and axoaxonic connections are important for neuronal communication.
    • Axosomatic connections are the strongest.
    • Impairment of these connections can lead to neurodegenerative disease.

    Failure of Homeostatic Feedback Mechanisms

    • Negative feedback mechanisms are crucial for regulating excessive stimulation within the CNS and PNS.
    • These mechanisms are primarily located in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.
    • Failure of these mechanisms can have significant consequences throughout the CNS and PNS.
    • Some cortical/subcortical structures involved in regulating these functions include the Basal Ganglia, Substantia Nigra, Limbic Cortex.

    Important Neurodegenerative Diseases to Focus On

    • Parkinson's Disease
    • Huntington's Disease
    • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

    Parkinson's Disease (General)

    • A neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms.
    • Epidemiology: Mean age of diagnosis is 70, slightly higher prevalence among Hispanic males.
    • Genetic and epigenetic contributors.
    • Environmental factors may play a role, including exposure to air pollution, pesticides, and use of chemicals. There are several correlations, but no single cause.
    • Anatomy of the Basal Ganglia is vital to understanding the pathology and management. The basal ganglia comprises several key components and interact with each other via specific neurotransmitters.

    Parkinson's Disease Pathophysiology

    • Characterized by the destruction of the substantia nigra pars compacta.
    • This affects both the direct and indirect pathways.
    • Lewy Bodies, caused by abnormal protein deposition (alpha-synuclein), are associated with the progression of the disease, especially with dementia in later stages.

    Parkinson's Disease Clinical Phenotypes

    • Motor Findings: Bradykinesia, resting tremors, and gait abnormalities typically manifest first.
    • Non-Motor Findings: masked facial expression, hypophonia, akathisia, anxiety, and memory loss, often emerge in later stages.

    Parkinson's Disease Management

    • Pharmacotherapy: Levodopa/Carbidopa (used as the 'gold standard'), Dopaminergic Agonists (Pramipexole, Ropinirole-non-ergot, Bromocriptine-ergot), MAO-B inhibitors (Selegiline, Rasagiline), Amantadine.
    • Protective Factors: Nicotine (smoking), caffeine (as an Adenosine A2A antagonist).

    Huntington's Disease (General)

    • A progressive neurodegenerative disease with strong hereditary components.
    • Autosomal dominant inheritance pattern.
    • Characterized by a CAG trinucleotide repeat expansion on chromosome 4 (HTT gene), leading to an abnormal Huntingtin protein.
    • The number of CAG repeats correlates with earlier onset and increased severity of the disease.

    Huntington's Disease Pathophysiology

    • Accumulation of abnormal, expanded huntingtin protein leads to:
    • Disruption of neuronal proteins (including BDNF).
    • Mitochondrial Dysfunction
    • Axonal transport disruption
    • Lysosomal dysfunction
    • Increased glutamate toxicity

    Huntington's Disease Management

    • Pharmacotherapy: Tetrabenazine (decreases dopamine effects).
    • Genetic Counseling and support are essential due to the hereditary nature of this disease.

    Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) (General)

    • A progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting both upper and lower motor neurons.
    • ALS typically results in gradual loss of muscle control, paralysis, and in most cases, death.
    • Very little exactly known regarding the pathophysiological mechanism, though several models have been proposed.
    • Sporadic (70 to 95% of cases) and less common familial causes, correlated with genetics, environmental factors (construction jobs, EMF exposure), and less frequently military service.

    ALS Pathophysiology

    • Possible mechanisms include glutamate toxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, axonal transport issues, and hyperactivation of microglial cells.
    • The dysfunction of SOD1 protein is potentially a primary drive in disease development leading to oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, and neuron loss.

    ALS Management

    • Riluzole, which acts on glutamate transmission to provide some clinical benefit, including delaying the disease progression by up to five-six months.
    • Edaravone acts as a free radical scavenger to reduce oxidative damage to neurons; often used in conjunction with Riluzole.
    • Tofersen (used in certain instances, particularly with SOD1 mutation.

    Overall Summary of Neurodegenerative Disorders

    • These disorders broadly share common features of progressive neuronal loss and dysfunction leading to specific clinical presentations.
    • The presentations also have distinct underlying causal and pathophysiological factors, which influence their management.

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    Description

    This quiz covers key concepts in neuroscience related to movement disorders such as Huntington's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). It explores the effects of neurotransmitters, the use of antipsychotics, and the mechanisms of various medications. Test your knowledge on the distinctions and treatment options for these conditions.

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