Question

.Explain addiction in terms of synaptic long term depression in the reward circuits of the brain (you do not need to be able to name all of the areas involved to answer this question

Answer 1

question 1

In neurophysiology, long-term depression (LTD) is an activity-dependent reduction in the efficacy of neuronal synapses lasting hours or longer following a long patterned stimulus. LTD occurs in many areas of the CNS with varying mechanisms depending upon brain region and developmental progress. Long term depression (LTD) is also dependent on biochemical cascades within the neuron. In opposition to potentiation, depression decreases the efficacy of a synapse. . The efficacy of a synapse can be changed by increasing or decreasing the amount of neurotransmitter presynaptically released across the synapse or by increasing or decreasing the amount of AMPA receptors present postsynaptically (thereby making that synapse more sensitive). Furthermore, the changes which occur at one synapse effects the entire network of neurons to which that synapse is connected.

question 2

CTE is a devastating and ultimately fatal tau protein-linked neurodegenerative disease reported in contact sport athletes with repetitive head injuries. CTE has a complex relationship to head traumas such as post-concussion syndrome and second impact syndrome that occur earlier in life. A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that affects your brain function. This occurs from a mild blow to the head, either with or without loss of consciousness, and can lead to temporary cognitive symptoms. Traumatic brain injury often occurs as a result of a severe sports injury or car accident. Immediate or delayed symptoms may include confusion, blurry vision and difficulty concentrating. Infants may cry persistently or be irritable.