8.2.7 - Actions Of Drugs On Synapses

Question 1

What Does MDMA (Ecstasy) Effect?

Answer 1

Serotonin.

Question 2

What Is The Effect Of MDMA On Serotonin Levels?
(4 Points)

Answer 2

~ Inhibits the reuptake of serotonin, into the pre-synaptic neurone.

~ It binds to the specific proteins, which enable reuptake.

~ Increasing the levels of serotonin.

~ Also, MDMA triggers the release of more serotonin from the pre-synaptic neurone.

Question 3

What Is The Effect Of Serotonin?
(2 Points)

Answer 3

~ Individuals will feel a sense of euphoria.

~ Affects mood.

Question 4

What Does L-Dopa Treat?

Answer 4

Parkinson’s disease.

Question 5

What Is The Effect Of L-Dopa On Dopamine Levels?
(4 Points)

Answer 5

~ Similar structure to dopamine.

~ Transported in the blood, to the brain.

~ In the brain, it is converted into dopamine, in a reaction catalysed by the enzyme dopa-decarboxylase.

~ Increasing levels of dopamine in the brain.

Question 6

Why Can’t Dopamine Be Given Directly, To Patients With Parkinson’s Disease?

Answer 6

Dopamine, cannot cross the blood-brain barrier.