Which disorder is CORRECTLY paired with an associated neurotransmitter?
Question 15 options:
a)
Parkinson’s disease – dopamine
b)
depression – glutamate
c)
schizophrenia – serotonin
d)
Alzheimer’s disease – endorphins
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is:
a) Parkinson’s disease – dopamine
Explanation:
Neurotransmitters play critical roles in regulating brain function and are often implicated in neurological and psychiatric disorders. Here is an explanation of the correct answer and why the others are incorrect:
a) Parkinson’s disease – dopamine (Correct)
Parkinson’s disease is primarily caused by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra, a region of the brain critical for motor control. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that facilitates communication between nerve cells involved in movement, mood, and reward. As dopamine levels decrease, individuals experience symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement). Dopaminergic treatments, like levodopa (a dopamine precursor), help alleviate symptoms by replenishing dopamine levels.
b) Depression – glutamate (Incorrect)
Depression is more commonly associated with deficiencies in serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine rather than glutamate. Glutamate is the brain’s primary excitatory neurotransmitter, and while recent research has explored its role in depression (e.g., ketamine affecting glutamate pathways), it is not the primary neurotransmitter traditionally linked to depression.
c) Schizophrenia – serotonin (Incorrect)
Schizophrenia is primarily associated with dopamine dysregulation, particularly hyperactivity in dopamine pathways. While serotonin plays a secondary role, particularly in atypical antipsychotics that target serotonin receptors, dopamine is the main neurotransmitter implicated in schizophrenia.
d) Alzheimer’s disease – endorphins (Incorrect)
Alzheimer’s disease is associated with a deficiency in acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in memory and learning. Endorphins, which are associated with pain relief and mood regulation, are not directly linked to Alzheimer’s pathology.
Understanding these associations helps in diagnosing and targeting treatments for specific disorders, as each disorder has a distinct neurochemical profile.