Psychopharmacology

Much of scientists’ knowledge of the brain has been accumulated from studying brains that are not functioning normally.

Explain how research on Parkinson’s Disease and Alzheimer’s disease has contributed to understanding the roles of the neurotransmitters dopamine and acetylcholine in brain function. Discuss the following:

• Discuss issues related to managing the symptoms of the disorders.
• What roles does acetylcholine play in the following nervous system functions?

  Parasympathetic nervous system activity
  Control of voluntary movement
  Learning and memory
  Sleep

Revisiting the Question about Ethics

There is no known cure for Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s Diseases; however, experts believe that such stem-cell lines could be very valuable tools for studying these progressive debilitating diseases. Given your increased understanding of the brain, revisit the following questions that were proposed in Week 1:

• Do you feel the same regarding the ethics of stem-cell research?

  What are the facts that support your decision?
  Provide at least 2 references from scientific research.

• Are you for or against animal research for studying Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s?

  What are the facts that support your decision?
  Provide at least 2 references from scientific research.