Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary difference between electrical and chemical synapses in neuronal communication?

Accepted Answer

Electrical synapses pass electrical signals through gap junctions, synchronizing cell networks, while chemical synapses use neurotransmitters to transmit signals across synaptic clefts.

Question 2

A patient is given a drug that blocks GABA$$_A$$ receptors in the brain. What is the most likely immediate effect on neuronal activity?

Accepted Answer

Increased neuronal excitability due to reduced inhibitory Cl$$^-$$ currents.

Question 3

Which of the following neurotransmitters is derived from tryptophan and is primarily involved in mood regulation within the CNS?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin

Question 4

A researcher applies a substance that acts as an agonist at muscarinic receptors in the heart. What is the expected physiological effect?

Accepted Answer

Decreased heart rate due to activation of G protein–coupled receptors

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why electrical synapses are important in synchronizing the activity of a network of cells?

Accepted Answer

They allow for the rapid, bidirectional flow of ions through gap junctions.

Question 6

Which receptor type is directly associated with rapid changes in membrane potential due to ion flow, and what is its alternative name?

Accepted Answer

Ionotropic receptor, also known as receptor-channel

Question 7

A patient is exposed to a toxin that blocks voltage-gated Ca$$^{2+}$$ channels at the presynaptic terminal. Which step in synaptic transmission is most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Vesicle fusion with the presynaptic membrane

Question 8

Which of the following neurotransmitters is classified as an amine, is derived from tyrosine, and is the major neurotransmitter of the autonomic sympathetic division of the PNS?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the action of glutamate at AMPA and NMDA receptors in the CNS?

Accepted Answer

It excites postsynaptic neurons by depolarizing them through Na$$^+$$ and Ca$$^{2+}$$ influx.

Question 10

A new drug is found to act as an antagonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Which of the following effects would most likely be observed?

Accepted Answer

Inhibition of skeletal muscle contraction due to blocked Na$$^+$$ and K$$^+$$ flow

Question 11

Which of the following is a correct pairing of neurotransmitter and its primary receptor type in the CNS?

Accepted Answer

Dopamine – Dopamine receptor (GPCR)

Question 12

Which class of neurocrines includes substances like substance P and opioid peptides, and what is their general function?

Accepted Answer

Peptides; they often function as neuromodulators or neurotransmitters involved in pain signaling

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the mechanism of action for metabotropic receptors?

Accepted Answer

They are G protein–mediated receptors that mediate slower responses and can open or close ion channels indirectly.

Question 14

A patient with Parkinson's disease is treated with a drug that increases dopamine levels in the CNS. Which receptor type is primarily targeted to improve motor function?

Accepted Answer

Dopamine receptor (GPCR)

Question 15

Which of the following is a correct statement about the action of neurohormones?

Accepted Answer

They act over long distances, often via the bloodstream, to affect target cells.

Question 16

Which of the following best explains why glycine can enhance the excitatory effect of glutamate at NMDA receptors?

Accepted Answer

Glycine acts as a co-agonist at NMDA receptors, facilitating channel opening when glutamate is present.

Question 17

A patient is given a drug that mimics the action of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors in the digestive tract. What is the most likely effect?

Accepted Answer

Increased peristalsis due to activation of G protein–coupled receptors

Question 18

Which of the following is NOT a structural class of neurocrines?

Accepted Answer

Steroids

Question 19

A scientist discovers a new neurotransmitter that binds to a receptor-channel, causing rapid depolarization of the postsynaptic membrane. Which type of receptor is this most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

Ionotropic receptor

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the role of antagonist molecules at neurocrine receptors?

Accepted Answer

They inhibit receptor activity by binding and preventing neurotransmitter action.

Ch 8B Neurons: Cell and Network Properties – Synaptic Communication and Neurocrines

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