Chapter 3: Neuroscience

Question 1

What are the primary components of a neuron?

Answer 1

Soma (cell body), dendrites, axon, axon terminals, and myelin sheath.

Question 2

What is the function of dendrites in a neuron?

Answer 2

Dendrites receive signals from other neurons and transmit them to the soma.

Question 3

How does the myelin sheath enhance neural communication?

Answer 3

It insulates the axon and increases the speed of electrical signal transmission.

Question 4

What is synaptic transmission?

Answer 4

The process where neurotransmitters are released from the axon terminal of one neuron and bind to receptors on the dendrites of another neuron.

Question 5

What are the main functions of the spinal cord?

Answer 5

To transmit sensory information to the brain and motor commands from the brain to the body, and to mediate reflexes.

Question 6

What is the function of the cerebral cortex?

Answer 6

It controls higher brain functions, including thought, perception, and voluntary motor activity.

Question 7

What is the significance of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in psychopharmacology?

Answer 7

The BBB limits the ability of many drugs to enter the brain, affecting their therapeutic efficacy.

Question 8

What is the role of afferent and efferent neurons in the PNS?

Answer 8

Afferent neurons carry sensory signals to the CNS, while efferent neurons carry motor commands from the CNS to muscles and glands.

Question 9

What are ganglia in the PNS?

Answer 9

Clusters of neuron cell bodies located outside the CNS that process sensory and motor signals.

Question 10

What is the primary role of the limbic system in mental health?

Answer 10

It regulates emotions, memory, and behavior, playing a key role in mood disorders and PTSD.

Question 11

What is the function of the hypothalamus within the limbic system?

Answer 11

It controls autonomic functions, regulates hormone release, and maintains homeostasis.

Question 12

How does the amygdala influence emotional responses?

Answer 12

The amygdala processes fear and aggression, playing a central role in emotional memory.

Question 13

What is the role of acetylcholine in the nervous system?

Answer 13

It facilitates learning and memory in the CNS and controls muscle contractions in the PNS.

Question 14

How does glutamate function as an excitatory neurotransmitter?

Answer 14

Glutamate increases neuronal activity and is involved in memory and learning.

Question 15

What is the role of endorphins in the brain?

Answer 15

They act as natural painkillers and mood enhancers.

Question 16

Why is dopamine important in both mental health and addiction?

Answer 16

Dopamine regulates reward and pleasure pathways, contributing to both motivation and substance use disorders.

Question 17

What is the significance of synaptic pruning during adolescence?

Answer 17

It strengthens frequently used neural connections and eliminates unused ones, optimizing brain function.

Question 18

How does neurogenesis contribute to brain plasticity?

Answer 18

Neurogenesis, the formation of new neurons, supports learning, memory, and recovery from brain injury.

Question 19

What neurotransmitter is deficient in Parkinson’s disease?

Answer 19

Dopamine.

Question 20

How does multiple sclerosis affect the nervous system?

Answer 20

It damages the myelin sheath, disrupting nerve signal transmission.

Question 21

What causes migraines at the neural level?

Answer 21

Abnormal neural activity and changes in blood flow in the brain.

Question 22

What is the mechanism of action of antianxiety drugs like benzodiazepines?

Answer 22

They enhance the effect of GABA, increasing inhibitory signals in the brain to reduce anxiety.

Question 23

How do mood stabilizers like lithium function in bipolar disorder?

Answer 23

Lithium regulates neurotransmitter release and neuronal excitability to stabilize mood swings.

Question 24

Why is receptor specificity important in psychotropic drugs?

Answer 24

Targeting specific receptors minimizes side effects and increases therapeutic effects.