Neurobiology of Cognition Flashcards
How are the functions of different parts of the brain determined?
Imaging = fMRI, functional brain imaging
Experiments and historical cases
How does the brain form memories?
Takes in information from the environment, stores it and then returns it to consciousness when it’s needed
What is a rehearsal loop?
Memory function = can call things from short term memory into rehearsal loop so that they aren’t forgotten
Does long term memory have a limited capacity?
No = unlimited capacity
Where are the hippocampi located?
In the medial temporal lobe = first area affected by Alzheimer’s disease
What type of memory does ECT affect?
Episodic memory
What is procedural memory commonly referred to?
Muscle memory
What are some examples of things that are easy to remember?
Easier to remember things you find interesting
First and last things in a list are most easily recalled
What are some memory retrieval cues?
Context of the thing being remembered
State of the person (e.g intoxication)
Organisation
What is the significance of the nucleus basalis of Meynert?
First area to be affected by Alzheimer’s disease
What is the mode of action of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors?
Boost cholinergic transmission, but don’t treat the underlying disease process
What is memantine?
Non-competitive antagonist of NMDA receptors = used to treat Alzheimer’s
What are some examples of alcohol related brain damage?
Wernicke’s encephalopathy, Korsakoff syndrome, myelin sheath degradation, neuroinflammation, subdural haematoma due to falls
What causes Wernicke’s encephalopathy?
Thiamine deficiency = leads to ophthalmoplegia, confusion and ataxia
What are some associated features of Wernicke’s encephalopathy?
Visual and hearing impairment, reduced conscious level, hypothermia, lactic acidosis, circulatory changes
