Module 4: Modulating the nervous system quiz

Question 1

Which one of the following statements about the autonomic nervous system is INCORRECT?

a. Post-ganglionic parasympathetic fibres release ACh.
b. Activation of muscarinic receptors in the heart increases heart rate.
c. Under normal circumstances, activation of sympathetic fibres increases heart rate.
d. Pre-ganglionic neurones in both sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions release ACh.

Answer 1

b. Activation of muscarinic receptors in the heart increases heart rate.

Question 2

You have been asked to suggest a mechanism of enhancing the activity of a neurotransmitter thought to be deficient in Parkinson’s disease. Which one of the following would NOT likely produce this effect?

a. Using a drug that inhibits the synthesis of the neurotransmitter.
b. Using a drug that inhibits the degradation of the neurotransmitter.
c. Using a drug that mimics the activity of the neurotransmitter at its receptors.
d. Using a drug that inhibits the re-uptake of the neurotransmitter.

Answer 2

a. Using a drug that inhibits the synthesis of the neurotransmitter.

Question 3

A drug has been shown to have the following properties: dilation of the pupil; negligible increase in heart rate; dry mouth; constipation. Which one of the following types of drug classes does it most likely belong to?

a. Adrenoceptor agonist.
b. Muscarinic receptor antagonist.
c. Adrenoceptor antagonist.
d. Muscarinic receptor agonist.

Answer 3

b. Muscarinic receptor antagonist.

Question 4

Which one of the following receptors is activated by ACh and contracts skeletal muscle?

a. Nicotinic
b. Beta adrenoceptor
c. Muscarinic
d. Alpha adrenoceptor

Answer 4

a. Nicotinic

Question 5

A selective alpha2 adrenoceptor agonist is developed. Which one of the following actions on a sympathetic neurone would it most likely have?

a. Inhibition of the synthesis of noradrenaline.
b. Inhibition of the metabolism of noradrenaline.
c. Inhibition of the re-uptake of noradrenaline.
d. Inhibition of the release of noradrenaline.

Answer 5

d. Inhibition of the release of noradrenaline.

Question 6

Which one of the following statements about adrenoceptors is correct?

a. Antagonists of the beta2-adrenoceptor dilate the airways.
b. Agonists at alpha1-adrenoceptors dilate blood vessels.
c. Agonists at alpha1-adrenoceptors narrow the pupil of the eye.
d. Antagonists at beta1-adrenoceptors slow the heart.

Answer 6

d. Antagonists at beta1-adrenoceptors slow the heart.