Question 1: Define a synapse and explain its role in nerve signal transmission.

Answer: A synapse is a junction between two neurons where nerve signals are transmitted chemically or electrically, enabling communication within the nervous system.

Question 2: Describe how neurotransmitters are involved in synaptic transmission.

Answer: Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers released from the presynaptic neuron into the synaptic cleft, where they bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron to propagate the nerve impulse.

Question 1: Name two common chemicals found in consumer products that can affect synaptic transmission.

Answer: Caffeine and certain antidepressants (such as SSRIs).

Question 2: Explain the mechanism by which caffeine affects synaptic activity.

Answer: Caffeine acts as an adenosine receptor antagonist, preventing adenosine from binding and thereby reducing inhibitory signals, which increases neuronal activity and alertness.

Question 1: If a drug increases the amount of neurotransmitter released at a synapse by 25%, and the original amount was 0.8 micrograms, what is the new amount released? Show your working.

Answer: New amount = 0.8 μg + (25% of 0.8 μg) = 0.8 μg + 0.2 μg = 1.0 μg

Question 1: Design a simple experiment to test how a caffeine-containing beverage affects reaction time. Include variables, controls, and safety precautions (theory only).

Answer: Students could measure baseline reaction times using a computer-based test. They then consume a caffeine-containing beverage and re-test after 30 minutes. Independent variable: caffeine intake; dependent variable: reaction time; control variables: age, time of day, environment. Safety precautions include avoiding excessive caffeine consumption and ensuring participants do not have allergies or health issues.

Question 1: A study reports that after using a new nasal spray containing a neurotransmitter analogue, volunteers experienced a 15% increase in alertness. What might this suggest about the spray’s effect on synaptic transmission?

Answer: It suggests that the nasal spray enhances synaptic transmission by mimicking or increasing neurotransmitter activity, leading to increased alertness.

Question 1: Describe the process by which a drug like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) affects synaptic transmission and how this can help in treating depression. (6 marks)

Answer: SSRIs block the reuptake of serotonin into the presynaptic neuron, increasing serotonin levels in the synaptic cleft. This prolongs the neurotransmitter’s action, enhancing communication between neurons involved in mood regulation, and thereby alleviating symptoms of depression.

Question 1: Explain how understanding synaptic mechanisms has contributed to the development of drugs that improve alertness and focus in consumers.

Answer: Research into synaptic transmission has led to the development of stimulant drugs like caffeine and modafinil, which enhance neurotransmitter activity to improve alertness and concentration.