Question

define the following terminology:

(a) Basal forebrain

(b) Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR)

(c) Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChR)

Answer 1

Ans:

(a) Basal forebrain:

- The basal forebrain is a term for a group of structures that that lie near the bottom of the front of the brain, including the nucleus basalis, diagonal band, medial septum and substantia innominata.

- These structures are important in the production of a brain chemical called acetylcholine, which is then widely distributed throught the brain.

- Damage to the basal brain can reduce the amount of acetylcholine in the brain and impair learning.

(b) Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) :

- Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor are those receptors that are particularly responsive to nicotine.

- Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are ligand-gated ion channels that forms pores in cells plasma membrane, mediating fast signal transmission at synapses.

- Nicotinic AChRs are involved in wide range of physiological processes.

(c) Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChR):

- Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors are those receptors that are particularly responsive to muscarine.

- The muscarinic AChR occur primarily in the central nervous system (CNS) and are part of a large family of G-protein-coupled-receptors.

- Muscarinic receptors are involved in a large number of physiological functions including heart rate and force, contraction of smooth muscles and the release of neurotransmitters.