Dopamine and Seratonin

Question 1

A) Define dopamine and provide:
- B) Its function/s
- C) Its effects on the brain both positive and negative

Answer 1

A) A modulatory neurotransmitter.
B) Influences happiness, motivation and memory.
C) When experience sing something rewarding, the brain will release dopamine as a feel good neurotransmitter. However it can promote addictive behaviours and schizophrenia.

Question 2

A) Define serotonin and provide:
- B) Its function/s
- C) Its effects on the brain both positive and negative

Answer 2

A) A modulatory neurotransmitter.
B) Influences mood, sleep and appetite.
C) Only inhibitory effects, mood stabilizer and controls sleep-wake cycle. Can cause serotonin syndrome, fear, heartrate elevated and hallucinations.

Question 3

What did Donald Herb conclude?

Answer 3

Learning results in the creation of a cell assemblies or interconnected groups of neurons that form pathways or networks. “Neurons that fire together, wire together”

Question 4

Define sprouting

Answer 4

The creation of new extensions on a neuron to allow it to make new connections with other neurons.

Question 5

Define rerouting

Answer 5

New connections are made between neurons to create pathways

Question 6

Define pruning

Answer 6

Elimination of wake, ineffective or unused synapses.

Question 7

Define LTP (Long term potention)

Answer 7

The long lasting strengthening of synaptic connections.
Resulting in enhanced or more effective neurotransmitters across the synapse.

Question 8

Define LTD (Long term depression)

Answer 8

The long lasting decrease in the strength of synaptic neurons and transmitting compared to LTP.

Question 9

Where do LTP and LTD occur?

Answer 9

In synapses within learning brain areas

Question 10

How does LTP occur?

Answer 10

After repeated stimulation by neurotransmitters.

Question 11

How does LTD occur?

Answer 11

After a lack of stimulation by neurotransmitters.