A Researcher Is Exploring Various Methods to Decrease Neuronal Loss

question 125

Multiple Choice

A researcher is exploring various methods to decrease neuronal loss after ischemic injury.  During an experiment, the researcher induces focal cerebral ischemia in rodents; after a short time, there is ATP depletion and subsequent ionic derangements in cells within the infarction core.  Increased release and impaired clearance of extracellular neurotransmitters is also noted.  One particular neurotransmitter leads to sustained calcium influx in exposed neurons, initiating a toxic cascade that result in rapid cell death.  Blockade of a receptor for which of the following neurotransmitters is most likely to decrease this type of neuronal injury?

• A)Dopamine
• B)Glutamate
• C)Glycine
• D)Norepinephrine
• E)Serotonin

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Definitions:

Human Impact

The effects and consequences of human activities on the environment and its natural processes.

Photochemical Smog

Mixture of several air pollutants that injure plant tissues, irritate eyes, and cause respiratory problems in humans.

Nucleic Acids

Essential biomolecules for life, such as DNA and RNA, are responsible for carrying genetic information and participating in the synthesis of proteins.

Nitrogen

A chemical element with symbol N and atomic number 7, essential for all living organisms, primarily involved in protein synthesis and other vital biological processes.