Brain Chemicals

Question 1

What two conditions are linked with imbalances of important brain chemicals

Answer 1

Depression

Parkinson’s Disease

Question 2

What is Parkinson’s Disease

Answer 2

Associated with death of a group of dopamine-secreting neurons in brain

Results in reduction of dopamine levels in brain

Question 3

What is Dopamine

Answer 3

Neurotransmitter active in neurones in frontal cortex, brain stem and spinal cord

Associated with control of movement and emotional responses

Question 4

Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease

Answer 4

Variety available

E.G levodopa medication
Aim to increase concentration of dopamine in brain.

Dopamine cant move into brain from bloodstream but molecule used to make it can (l-dopa)

L-dopa can be turned into dopamine to help control symptoms

Question 5

Serotonin

Answer 5

Neurotransmitter linked to feeling of reward and pleasure

Question 6

Depression

Answer 6

Lack of serotonin leads to clinical depression

Question 7

How does Ecstasy (MDMA) work

Answer 7

Prevents reuptake of serotonin

Effect is maintenance of high concentration of serotonin in synapses, which bring mood changes in users of drug

Question 8

SSRI

Answer 8

Serotonin Selective Reabsorption Inhibitor

Reduces depression. Serotonin not reabsorbed cuz SSRI binds to reuptake proteins. Means high level of serotonin

increased level of serotonin in synapses continues to bind to receptors in postsynaptic membranes, increasing feeling of reward and pleasure.