Question Bank 4 - HPA axis and Depression

Question 1

The sequence of DNA to which glucocorticoid receptor-cortisol complexes bind is known as the ____.

Answer 1

Glucocorticoid response element.

Question 2

What three things are true for intermediate glucocorticoid negative feedback?

Answer 2

1. Onset of 30 minutes to 2 hours.
2. Likely requires changes in gene transcription.
3. Likely requires changes in protein synthesis.

Question 3

What is true for slow feedback?

Answer 3

1. Onset after 3 hours.
2. Likely requires changes in gene transcription and protein synthesis.
3. Inhibits hormone synthesis and secretion.

Question 4

In the absence of dexamethasone (DEX), in terms of plasma cortisol levels, what would you expect to see in depressed subjects in response to the CRH?

Answer 4

Decreased levels due to proper negative feedback. Blunted ACTH response.

Question 5

What happens in the presence of DEX?

Answer 5

CRH elicits a large ACTH response because negative feedback does not occur as it should.

Question 6

What are 3 examples of glucocorticoids?

Answer 6

1. Cortisol
2. Corticosterone
3. Dexamethasone

Question 7

Anandamide is an example of what?

Answer 7

An Endocannabinoid (important in HPA axis regulation through a process of glucocorticoid negative feedback.

Question 8

In normal rats, levels of corticosterone are _____ in the evening than in the morning.

Answer 8

Higher.

Question 9

Depression is often associated with what?

Answer 9

Cushing’s syndrome.

Question 10

AVP can act as a _______ for _____.

Answer 10

Releasing hormone, ACTH.

Question 11

Mineralcorticoid receptor mRNA is expressed at ____ levels in the hippocampus of suicide victims.

Answer 11

Lower