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CSC3019 - Translational Medical Science > Trigger 5 - Neurophysiology of Play > Flashcards

Trigger 5 - Neurophysiology of Play Flashcards

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USMLE® Step 1 flashcards Biology 101 flashcards
1
Q

Dopamine is produced in the __________ in response to the processing of reward stimuli.

A

Ventral tegmental area (VTA)

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2
Q

What is the role of Tyrosine Hydroxylase in dopamine production?

A

Tyrosine Hydroxylase converts tyrosine to L-DOPA, a precursor for dopamine.

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3
Q

Which transporter is responsible for packaging dopamine into synaptic vesicles?
a) VMAT1
b) DAT
c) VMAT2
d) SERT

A

c) VMAT2

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4
Q

Explain the process of dopamine release into the synaptic cleft during play.

A

Stimuli cause changes in membrane potential, leading to exocytosis of dopamine into the synaptic cleft, where it binds to postsynaptic receptors.

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5
Q

Protein Kinase A phosphorylates downstream targets such as ___________, which inhibits protein phosphatase 1.

A

DARPP-32

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6
Q

What are D1-like receptors associated with in terms of G-proteins?

A

: D1-like receptors are associated with G⍺s/olf, which activates adenylyl cyclase.

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7
Q

Which brain region is considered the pleasure center and primarily associated with the release of dopamine during play?
a) Hippocampus
b) Amygdala
c) Nucleus accumbens
d) Prefrontal cortex

A

c) Nucleus accumbens

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8
Q

Elaborate on the role of the amygdala in the neurophysiology of play, particularly its connection to fear responses.

A

The amygdala, part of the fear center, can be modulated by dopamine signaling during play, leading to reduced stress-related responses and influencing memory formation.

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9
Q

Dopamine signaling and pathways can modulate the activity of the ___________, influencing responses to rewards, fear extinction, stress, and fear responses.

A

Amygdala

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10
Q

What is the function of DARPP-32 in the dopamine signaling pathway?

A

DARPP-32, when phosphorylated by Protein Kinase A, inhibits protein phosphatase 1, leading to the activation of effectors such as ion channels and transcription factors.

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11
Q

Which pathway projects through the mesocorticolimbic pathway and is associated with decision-making and working memory tasks?
a) Mesolimbic pathway
b) Mesocortical pathway
c) Nigrostriatal pathway
d) Tuberoinfundibular pathway

A

b) Mesocortical pathway

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12
Q

How does the mesolimbic pathway contribute to the neurophysiology of play, specifically in terms of the limbic system?

A

The mesolimbic pathway projects to the limbic system, including the nucleus accumbens, amygdala, and hippocampus, influencing emotional processing, pleasure, fear, and associative learning during play.

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13
Q

Oxytocin, produced in the hypothalamus, increases trust in social settings by targeting the ________ and stimulating mesocorticolimbic dopaminergic neurons

A

Ventral tegmental area (VTA)

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14
Q

What is metaplasticity, and why is it considered important in the context of depression and play?

A

Metaplasticity refers to activity-dependent modifications in neural function that modulate synaptic plasticity. It is crucial in inducing resilience to depression by making long-term potentiation (LTP) more likely during positive affective experiences, which play can influence.

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15
Q

Which brain region associated with play is responsible for memory formation, spatial navigation, and cognitive mapping?
a) Amygdala
b) Hippocampus
c) Nucleus accumbens
d) Prefrontal cortex

A

b) Hippocampus

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16
Q

Explain the relationship between dopamine release, play, and the anticipation of rewards in the context of the pleasure center.

A

The pleasure center, primarily located in the nucleus accumbens, is activated during play, especially in anticipation of rewards, leading to the release of dopamine. This activation reinforces behavior, encouraging continued engagement in play.

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17
Q

Dopamine signaling and pathways can modulate the activity of the amygdala, influencing responses to rewards, fear extinction, stress, and ____________.

A

Fear responses

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18
Q

What is the role of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in the mesolimbic dopamine system?

A

The VTA is responsible for producing dopamine and signaling to the nucleus accumbens, the primary reward structure in the brain, through the mesolimbic dopamine pathway.

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19
Q

Which neurotransmitter is associated with mood disorders such as depression, and its dysregulation is linked to the development of depressive states?
a) Serotonin
b) GABA
c) Acetylcholine
d) Dopamine

A

a) Serotonin

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20
Q

: Discuss the potential therapeutic implications of targeting the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) metaplasticity in the treatment of depression.

A

Targeting MPFC metaplasticity could enhance long-term potentiation (LTP) and induce resilience to depression. This approach holds promise for novel therapeutics that may be more effective than current antidepressant medications.

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21
Q

Metaplasticity refers to activity-dependent modifications in neural function that modulate synaptic plasticity, making LTP more likely during positive affective experiences and influencing one’s capacity to adjust and absorb information from ___________.

A

Novel learning environments

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22
Q

What is the relationship between the limbic system and the mesolimbic dopamine pathway during play?

A

The mesolimbic pathway, consisting of dopaminergic neurons, projects to the limbic system, influencing emotional processing, pleasure, fear, and associative learning during play.

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23
Q

In the context of play promoting well-being, which brain region is associated with memory formation, spatial navigation, and cognitive mapping?
a) Amygdala
b) Nucleus accumbens
c) Hippocampus
d) Prefrontal cortex

A

c) Hippocampus

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24
Q

How does play deprivation in adolescents impact cognitive functions, according to the experimental evidence discussed?

A

Play deprivation in adolescents can lead to worsened impulse control, impaired decision-making, reduced flexibility, and a reduced response to dopaminergic neurotransmission, potentially contributing to the development of depressive disorders.

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25
Q

Oxytocin neurons are thought to target the VTA and stimulate ______________.

A

Mesocorticolimbic dopaminergic neurons

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26
Q

What is the role of curiosity in play, and how is it hypothesized to be linked to the release of dopamine from the pleasure center?

A

Curiosity involved in play has been hypothesized to trigger a significant release of dopamine from the pleasure center, reinforcing current behavior and encouraging continued engagement in playful activities.

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27
Q

ccording to the information provided, which brain region is considered the “social center” and regulates anger and trust in social interactions during play?
a) Nucleus accumbens
b) Amygdala
c) Hippocampus
d) Hypothalamus

A

d) Hypothalamus

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28
Q

laborate on the connection between mirror neurons, mimicry, and the development of understanding others’ intentions during play.

A

Mirror neurons fire when an individual performs an action and when they see someone else perform the same action, facilitating mimicry during play. This process contributes to the development of understanding others’ intentions and enhances social interactions.

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29
Q

he fear center, also known as the amygdala, is a part of the limbic system and is involved in the processing of emotions. Activation of the fear center can change experiences of excitement into fear and modulate activity of the amygdala, leading to reduced ______________.

A

Stress-related responses

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30
Q

Discuss the importance of a playful learning environment in Higher Education, focusing on fostering a sense of belonging and connection within a community or group

A

A playful learning environment in Higher Education fosters a sense of belonging and connection within a community or group, addressing diverse requirements, appreciating different viewpoints, and actively working to promote equity and fairness.

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31
Q

How is play defined in the context provided?

A

Play is defined as “an activity that is carried out with the goal of increasing joy with respect to oneself and their surroundings.”

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32
Q

What is the dopaminergic system, and what is another term used to refer to it?

A

The dopaminergic system, also known as the mesolimbic system, is a pathway involved in feelings of joy, reward, pleasure, and motivation, following the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine.

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33
Q

How is play linked to the dopaminergic pathway, and what role does dopamine play in this context?

A

Play is linked to the dopaminergic pathway as structures related to this system are associated with feelings of joy and reward. Increased levels of dopamine in the brain contribute to the experience of joy, and play has been identified as a factor that increases joy.

34
Q

Name three structures involved in the dopaminergic system.

A

The Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA), Nucleus Accumbens, and Prefrontal Cortex are three structures associated with the dopaminergic system.

35
Q

How does the mesolimbic pathway function in the dopamine system, and which two brain regions are primarily involved?

A

he mesolimbic pathway involves dopamine neurons projecting from the midbrain, specifically the Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA), to the nucleus accumbens of the ventral striatum. This pathway is primarily associated with feelings of reward and pleasure.

36
Q

What is the Mesocortical Pathway, and which brain region does it primarily project to?

A

The Mesocortical Pathway originates in the VTA and projects to the cortex, primarily targeting the prefrontal cortex.

37
Q

Which area is considered the main region associated with reward in the context of the dopaminergic system?

A

The nucleus accumbens is identified as the main area associated with reward in the dopaminergic system.

38
Q

Name a researcher who has significantly contributed to understanding the biological perspective of play in animals.

A

Marc Bekoff

39
Q

According to Bekoff, what is the potential role of play interactions in group living mammals in shaping human justice and morality?

A

Play interactions in group living mammals may form the basis of morality, incorporating fair and cooperative elements that contribute to the development of human justice and morality.

40
Q

According to Ashley Montagu, what is one of the principal criteria of mental health?

A

The ability to play

41
Q

According to Marc Bekoff’s research, play interactions in group living mammals contribute to the development of:
a) Physical strength
b) Human justice and morality
c) Cognitive abilities
d) Survival disadvantage

A

b) Human justice and morality

42
Q

What does the term “Interpretative Reproduction” refer to in the context of play?

A

Interpretative Reproduction involves passing down games through generations, modifying rules, and adding new meanings, expressing individualism and establishing values and rituals.

43
Q

Elaborate on the cultural assimilation aspect of play, highlighting its role in shaping children’s understanding of cultural behaviors and values.

A

Play serves as a medium through which children learn cultural behaviors and values, facilitating shared experiences among children from different backgrounds. Modeling and role play contribute to the development and understanding of culturally accepted norms

44
Q

Play is considered causal through the development of neural function, social skills, and physical development, providing individuals with a ____________ advantage.

A

Survival

45
Q

Johan Huizinga, in his writing about the cultural importance of play, suggested that play:
a) Is irrelevant to culture
b) Predates culture
c) Hinders the development of communities
d) Discourages individualism

A

b) Predates culture

46
Q

Define the term “Neurological Resilience” in the context of play.

A

Neurological resilience refers to the capacity of play to contribute to a flexible and robust mind by developing neural pathways and brain sections, enhancing adaptability and function.

47
Q

Discuss the role of play in building relationships, emphasizing the psychological rules it teaches, such as trust, empathy, and fairness.

A

Play plays a crucial role in building relationships by teaching psychological rules like trust, empathy, and fairness. Through playful interactions, individuals learn to navigate social dynamics and develop a deeper understanding of interpersonal connections.

48
Q

What is play deprivation?

A

Play deprivation occurs when an individual is unable to engage in normal play activities, inhibiting social and emotional learning and potentially damaging early child development.

49
Q

How does play deprivation affect a child’s ability to interact with others, and what are the consequences for resilience and self-control?

A

A play-deprived child may struggle to interact with others, leading to poor resilience and lowered self-control. The lack of social play can hinder the development of crucial social skills.

50
Q

In rats, what are the effects of play deprivation during adolescence on dopaminergic modulation of the prefrontal cortex, and how does it impact decision-making under challenging circumstances?

A

Play deprivation in rats alters dopaminergic modulation of the prefrontal cortex, impairing decision-making under novel or challenging circumstances. Increased playful social interaction, on the other hand, improves the integration of the prefrontal cortex for learning complex behaviors, such as self-regulation and planning, and enhances neural plasticity.

51
Q

What are the long-term effects of play deprivation on animals’ social behavior later in life?

A

Animals deprived of social play during early development and adolescence exhibit rigidity and abnormally low levels of social behavior later in life, even when resocialized. Studies on socially isolated rats indicate increased impulsivity, irregular behaviors, and poor decision-making in challenging situations, reflecting worse self-regulation.

52
Q

How does play deprivation impact the plasticity of the prefrontal cortex, and what role does the prefrontal cortex play in adapting to changing environments and societal demands?

A

Long-term play deprivation is highly detrimental to individual well-being and survival. In non-playful rats, impaired dopamine-mediated plasticity in the prefrontal cortex is observed, suggesting that the lack of play may impact prefrontal cortex functionality. Play-associated plasticity within the prefrontal cortex is crucial for behavioral flexibility, allowing individuals to respond and adapt better to changing environments and societal demands.

53
Q

In rats, the deprivation of social play during adolescence alters dopaminergic modulation of the prefrontal cortex, impairing decision-making under challenging circumstances. Increased playful social interaction, in contrast, improves the integration of the prefrontal cortex for learning complex behaviors. What does this suggest about the role of play in the dopaminergic system?
a) Play has no impact on dopaminergic modulation
b) Play enhances decision-making under challenging circumstances
c) Play hinders the integration of the prefrontal cortex
d) Play only affects physical development

A

b) Play enhances decision-making under challenging circumstances

54
Q

Considering the importance of the prefrontal cortex regarding behavioral flexibility, play-induced plasticity in prefrontal functionality can yield an adult that is better able to respond and adapt to changing environments and societal demands. What is a key role of the prefrontal cortex in this context?
a) Motor coordination
b) Digestive functions
c) Behavioral flexibility
d) Visual perception

A

c) Behavioral flexibility

55
Q

Long-term play deprivation is highly detrimental for individual well-being and even ____________.

A

Survival

56
Q

In non-playful rats, impaired dopamine-mediated plasticity in the prefrontal cortex suggests that the lack of play may impact prefrontal cortex functionality. What is the consequence of this impairment?
a) Improved decision-making
b) Enhanced social skills
c) Better memory formation
d) Impaired prefrontal cortex functionality

A

d) Impaired prefrontal cortex functionality

57
Q

What is positive affectivity, and how does it influence human interactions and engagement with the surroundings?

A

Positive affectivity is a human characteristic that describes the extent to which individuals experience positive sensations, emotions, and sentiments, influencing their interactions with others and their surroundings.

58
Q

How do higher levels of positive affectivity manifest in individuals, and what characteristics are associated with it?

A

Higher positive affectivity individuals tend to be more enthusiastic, energetic, confident, active, and alert. These characteristics contribute to a generally positive and engaged outlook on life.

59
Q

What is the association between dopamine release and positive affect in cognitive abilities?

A

Positive affect is associated with dopamine release, and it can stimulate additional dopamine release when levels are low. This increase in dopamine influences the mesocorticolimbic system through VTA cells.

60
Q

How does positive affect contribute to improved mental health, and what symptoms of psychological disorders can it reduce?

A

Positive affect is linked to reduced symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Individuals with higher positive affectivity tend to experience better mental well-being.

61
Q

What positive effects does positive affectivity have on physical health?

A

Positive affectivity is associated with a strengthened immune system, reduced inflammation, and a lower risk of chronic diseases, contributing to overall enhanced physical health.

62
Q

In what ways does positive affectivity contribute to better relationships?

A

Positive affectivity enhances social connections, empathy, and communication skills, fostering healthier and more positive relationships with others.

63
Q

How does positive affectivity contribute to increased resilience, and what characteristics make individuals more resilient?

A

Individuals with higher positive affectivity tend to be more optimistic and can bounce back from setbacks more effectively, showcasing increased resilience in the face of challenges.

64
Q

How does positive affectivity contribute to longevity, and what is the connection between positive affect and adopting healthier lifestyles?

A

Positive affectivity is associated with adopting healthier lifestyles, leading to an increased lifespan and promoting longevity.

65
Q

What overall improvements in well-being are associated with positive affectivity?

A

Positive affectivity contributes to a better sense of fulfillment and purpose, enhancing overall well-being and life satisfaction

66
Q

How does play contribute to the regulation of neurotransmitters, and what role do these neurotransmitters play in countering imbalances seen in depression?

A

Play promotes the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine (pleasure and reward), serotonin (mood regulation), and endorphins (mood elevators), helping counteract neurotransmitter imbalances associated with depression.

67
Q

What impact does play have on the immune system and inflammation in the brain, and why is this relevant to depression?

A

Play modulates the immune system and reduces inflammation in the brain, addressing the increased inflammation associated with chronic stress and depression, thereby mitigating depressive symptoms.

68
Q

How can play induce changes at the epigenetic level, and what role do these modifications play in resilience against depression?

A

Play induces epigenetic modifications that affect gene expression related to stress response, mood regulation, and brain plasticity, contributing to increased resilience against depression.

69
Q

What is the relationship between play and the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and why is BDNF important for depression resilience?

A

Play increases BDNF production, supporting neuroplasticity crucial for adapting to stressors and recovering from them, thus promoting resilience against depression.

70
Q

How does play impact the brain’s ability to form new neural connections and promote the growth of new neurons, and why is this relevant for depression resilience?

A

Play enhances neuroplasticity and neurogenesis, crucial for learning, memory, and resilience to stress and depression.

71
Q

What role does play play in regulating stress hormones like cortisol, and how does this contribute to protection against depression?

A

Play activities can lead to a reduction in stress hormones like cortisol, protecting the brain from the harmful effects of chronic stress, a risk factor for depression.

72
Q

How does play contribute to improved cognitive functions and emotional regulation, and why are these aspects crucial for managing depressive symptoms?

A

Play enhances cognitive functions like creativity and emotional regulation, vital for managing depressive symptoms.

73
Q

How does social interaction in play contribute to mental well-being and depression resilience?

A

Play involving social interaction improves social skills, reduces isolation, and fosters a sense of belonging and support, which are important for preventing or mitigating depression.

74
Q

What neurotransmitter is associated with pleasure and reward and is regulated by play?
a. Serotonin
b. Endorphins
c. Dopamine
d. BDNF

A

c. Dopamine

75
Q

How does play contribute to the reduction of inflammation in the brain, a factor linked to depression?
a. Inducing stress
b. Modulating the immune system
c. Increasing cortisol levels
d. Suppressing neurotransmitter release

A

b. Modulating the immune system

76
Q

What does play induce at the epigenetic level, influencing genes related to stress response and mood regulation?
a. Hormone imbalance
b. Neuronal apoptosis
c. Synaptic pruning
d. Epigenetic modifications

A

d. Epigenetic modifications

77
Q

Which molecule, crucial for neuroplasticity, is increased by play and supports the growth of new neurons in the brain?
a. Serotonin
b. Dopamine
c. BDNF
d. Endorphins

A

c. BDNF

78
Q

How does play contribute to the brain’s ability to form new neural connections and promote the growth of new neurons?
a. Inhibiting neurogenesis
b. Reducing neuroplasticity
c. Enhancing neuroplasticity and neurogenesis
d. Suppressing BDNF production

A

c. Enhancing neuroplasticity and neurogenesis

79
Q

What role does play play in regulating stress hormones like cortisol, thereby protecting the brain from chronic stress?
a. Increasing cortisol levels
b. Inducing stress
c. Reducing cortisol levels
d. Suppressing neurotransmitter release

A

c. Reducing cortisol levels

80
Q

How does play contribute to improved cognitive functions and emotional regulation, crucial for managing depressive symptoms?
a. Inducing stress
b. Impairing cognitive functions
c. Enhancing cognitive functions and emotional regulation
d. Suppressing neurotransmitter release

A

c. Enhancing cognitive functions and emotional regulation

81
Q

In the context of social interaction, how does play contribute to mental well-being and depression resilience?
a. Increasing isolation
b. Reducing social skills
c. Fostering a sense of belonging and support
d. Suppressing emotional expression

A

c. Fostering a sense of belonging and support

82
Q
A

CSC3019 - Translational Medical Science (10 decks)

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