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The endothelial cells forming the capillaries in brain are tightly joined --- form a barrier --- protect the brain
There are nearly 50 NT Functions of two are discussed DOPAMINE & SEROTONIN The effects of ECSTASY are used to illustrate how drugs can affect synapses
Dopamine is NT secreted by neurons , located in the midbrain In PD , the neurons that secrete dopamine in the basal ganglia die
SYMPTOMS OF PD
Stiffness of muscles Tremor of the muscles Slowness of movement Poor balance Walking problems Other problems could be difficulty in speech and breathing , depression
TREATMENTS FOR PD
Slowing the loss of dopamine -- by use of selegiline --inhibits Monoamine oxidase which breaks down dopamine Dopamine cannot be given , as it cants cross into brain from blood stream so L- Dopa a precursor can be given can be converted into dopamine , increasing the concentration
Dopamine agonists mimic the role of dopamine Gene therapy research still going on to inject direct proteins
Serotonin imp for determining a persons mood Neurons that secrete serotonin cover major areas of brain
SSRI Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor blocks reuptake of serotonin Prozac maintains high level of Serotonin
Synapses can be disrupted by A chemical that can bind to receptor sites on post synaptic neurone Chemicals prevent the release of NT , block or open ion channels or inhibit a breakdown enzyme
EFFECT OF ECSTASY
Side effects clouded thinking , disturbed behaviour , sweating , dry mouth , increased HR High BP , muscle breakdown , kidney failure etc Long term effects --- insomnia , depression , psychological problems