Edrolo Week 2 Test: Short Answer ( AOS1 )

Question 1

Explain a difference in the function of glutamate and GABA in the nervous system

Answer 1

Glutamate is the brains primary excitatory neurotransmitter and makes a post synaptic neuron more likely to initiate an action potential whereas GABA is the brains primary inhibitory neurotransmitter and makes it less likely for a post synaptic neuron to initiate an action potential

Question 2

What role does dopamine play in bodily movement and how is dopamine related to Parkinson’s disease

Answer 2

Dopamine is involved in transmitting signals that allow for smooth conscious movement. Parkinson’s disease involves damage to neurons that produce dopamine. When the brain produces less dopamine the movement related symptoms of Parkinson’s disease start to appear