Lecture 13

Question 1

Brain changes occurring in Alzheimers

Answer 1

death of cholingeric neurons in the basal forbrain- important for attention. Death of neurons in the medial temporal cortex and hippocampus– formation of memories. Death of neurons in the prefrontal and other parts of the cortex and limbic system–long term memory and emotion regulation

Question 2

Brain changes in Huntington’s

Answer 2

generalized and progressive brain atrophy, particularly in the cerebral cortex and basal ganglia. The basal ganglia is important in producing voluntary movement and inhibiting voluntary movement

Question 3

Brain changes in Parkinson’s

Answer 3

abnormally low levels of dopamine caused by degeneration and death of neurons in the substantia nigra in the midbrain. (which is involved in the initiation of voluntary movement

Question 4

Neuropathological changes in Alzheimers

Answer 4

abnormal folding of amyloid protien. Misfolded amyloid protein accumulates with many other protiens including a protien called tau in neurofibrillary tangles. Tangles disrupt neuronal function and eventually trigger neuronal apoptic cell death. When neurons die they leave behind amyloid filled plaques

Question 5

Neuropathological changes occuring in Huntington’s

Answer 5

Mutation to huntingtin gene produces abnormal huntingtin protein. Huntingtin protein misfolds and accumulates in aggregates called inclusion bodies.Inclusion bodies block peptide neurotransmitter transport to axon.Inclusion bodies also disrupt gene expression, calcium signaling, and mitochondrial function.May also lead to apoptotic cell death because normal huntingtin inhibits apoptosis