WEEK 2 DB POSTS

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American Public University *

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PCN535

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Biology

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Jan 9, 2024

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Topic 2 DQ 1 (Obj. 2.2 and 2.3) What is meant by the neurochemistry [PB 5Aof a drug? Identify one neurotransmitter and describe its physiological function in the human brain. The study of the chemical substances and processes involved in the nervous system, particularly the interaction of pharmaceuticals with neurotransmitters and receptors in the brain and how these interactions influence behavior and brain function, is referred to as drug neurochemistry. Neurochemistry is the study of how drugs interact with or affect the activity of neurons in the brain (Levinthal, 2016). To help determine the outcome, seven key neurotransmitters can be targeted. The seven chemicals are Acetylcholine, norepinephrine, glutamate, Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that has physiological effects on the brain. Serotonin is mostly found in the pons, medulla, limbic system, and cortex (Levinthal, 2016). Among other physiological effects on the brain, serotonin controls sleep and establishes mood levels (Levinthal, 2016). Serotonin levels in the brain that are too low might lead to depression, anxiety, and sleep issues. People who have these symptoms are frequently given an SSRI, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (Hensler, 2006). SSRIs are one of the antidepressant types that are currently most often administered. SSRIs block serotonin reabsorption and increase the amount of active serotonin in the brain (Hensler, 2006). This allows serotonin to accumulate between neurons, enabling correct message transmission and lifting the user's mood (Hensler, 2006). Hensler, J. (2006). Serotonin. In Basic Neurochemistry: Molecular, Cellular, and Medical Aspects (7th ed., pp. 227-250). Cambridge, MA: Academic Press. Levinthal, C. (2016). Drugs, behavior, and modern society (8th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Publishing ISBN-13: 9780134003047
Wk 2 DQ 2 Describe the so-called “brain reward pathway” and explain its importance to understanding the effects of drug-seeking behavior. Provide an example to support your description. Abuse of substances has a substantial effect on the brain's reward pathway or system. Numerous neurons that make up this circuit release chemicals when triggered. These neurotransmitters are released, which results in people feeling happy. Two examples of survival activities include eating and having sexual relations. Any activity that opens this channel makes people feel happy. This is best demonstrated by sexual engagement, which unleashes a barrage of hormones that open this pathway and provide feelings of general well-being (Koob & Nestler 1997). As a result, by rewarding actions that are essential for survival, the brain reward system helps. People who abuse alcohol or drugs also promote this path. People who overuse drugs therefore experience pleasurable emotions, or a "high." Repeated use of these substances has the potential to become the norm, motivating an urge to prioritize substance use over all other adaptive survival strategies. As a result, the impact of substance use or abuse on this pathway can help to explain some aspects of "addiction," which can result in increased use or abuse as well as drug-seeking behaviors (Koob & Nestler 1997). This is known as the "disease concept of addiction." The mesolimbic pathway, often known as the "brain reward pathway," is a sophisticated neuronal circuit in the brain that is essential for the enjoyment, reinforcement, and motivation of experiences. The effects of drug-seeking behavior and addiction must be understood to fully appreciate this pathway. The mechanisms behind drug-seeking behavior, addiction, and possible targets for therapeutic interventions targeted at ending the cycle of addiction and fostering recovery can be better understood by having a thorough understanding of the brain reward circuit. Koob, G.; Nestler, E. The Neurobiology of Drug Addiction. The Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences 1997; 9:482-49
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