Pharmacology · single question
Which neurotransmitter is primarily implicated in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Acetylcholine
C) Acetylcholine — CORRECT.
Alzheimer's disease is characterized by a significant loss of cholinergic neurons in the basal forebrain (nucleus basalis of Meynert), resulting in reduced acetylcholine levels in the cortex and hippocampus. This is the basis for cholinesterase inhibitor therapy (donepezil, rivastigmine).
A) Dopamine: Implicated in Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia.
B) Serotonin: Associated with depression and mood disorders.
D) GABA: The main inhibitory neurotransmitter; reduced in anxiety and epilepsy.
Alzheimer's disease is characterized by a significant loss of cholinergic neurons in the basal forebrain (nucleus basalis of Meynert), resulting in reduced acetylcholine levels in the cortex and hippocampus. This is the basis for cholinesterase inhibitor therapy (donepezil, rivastigmine).
A) Dopamine: Implicated in Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia.
B) Serotonin: Associated with depression and mood disorders.
D) GABA: The main inhibitory neurotransmitter; reduced in anxiety and epilepsy.