Pharmacology of memory Flashcards
Explicit memory is mediated by…
the hippocampus
Implicit memory is mediated by which parts of the brain
Skills and habits = striatum
Assocative learning = amygdala (emotional responses) cerebellum (movement skills e.g. cycling)
Explain Early LTP
synaptic strenghening is increased by covalent modifications of pre-existing proteins and strengthening of pre-existing connections
Explain between early and late LTP
Repeated AP trains activate NMDA receptors to an even greater degree, causing even greater Ca influx. This influx activates adenylyl cyclase which in turn activates a sensitisation cascade (cAMP, PKA, etc)
Explain late LTP
is thought to give rise to the growth of new synaptic connections
What is guanfacine
agonist at post-synaptix alpha2a-adrnoceptors. Improves working memory in wild type mice but no benefit in alpha2a- knockout mice
Gaunfacine increases regional cerbral blood flow in the dorsolateral PFC of monkeys performing a spatila working memory tasks
Name some drug treatments for ADHD.
Methlyphenidate, amphetamines, atomoxetine, guanfacine
Whats the MOA of methylphenidate (Ritalin)?
Blocks DA and NA transporters (DAT and NAT)
Whats the MOA of amphetamines (adderall)?
blocks DA and NA transporters and increases catecholamine release
Whats the MOA of atomoxetine?
Inhibits NA transporters
Whats the MOA of guanfacine?
NA mimetic that activates alpha2a-adrenoceptors
Name some other attention enhancers
Modafinil, caffeine
Which transporter does modafinil inhibit?
Inhibits dopamine re-uptake transporter (DAT)
What does caffeine inhibit?
Inhibits adenosinergix receptorts, which in turn can produce activation via interaction with GABAergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission
