KA4 c)Neurotransmitter effects on mood

Question 1

What are endorphins?

Answer 1

Endorphins are neurotransmitters that stimulate neurones involving in reducing the intensity of pain.

Question 2

When does endorphin production increases?

Answer 2

Endorphin production increases in response to severe injury, prolonged and continuous exercise, stress and eating certain foods ( chocolate).

Question 3

What is dopamine?

Answer 3

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that induces feelings of pleasure and reinforces particular behaviour by activating the reward pathway.

Question 4

What is the reward pathway?

Answer 4

The reward pathway is activated when an individual engages in a behaviour that is individual engages in a behaviour that is beneficial to them.

Question 5

What is used to treat neurotransmitter disorders?

Answer 5

Drugs are used to treat neurotransmitter related disorders. These drugs are agonists or antagonists.

Question 6

What are agonists drugs?

Answer 6

Agonists are chemicals that bind to and stimulate specific receptors mimicking the action of a neurotransmitter at a synapse.

Question 7

What are antagonists drugs?

Answer 7

Antagonists are chemicals that bind to specific receptors blocking the action of a neurotransmitter at a synapse.

Question 8

Describe what inhibitor drugs do in treating neurotransmitter disorders?

Answer 8

Drugs can act by :
inhibiting the enzymes that degrade neurotransmitters.
Inhibiting reputable of the neurotransmitter at the synapse causing an enhanced effect.