MCAT Social and Behavioral Sciences : Schizophrenia and Depression
Study concepts, example questions & explanations for MCAT Social and Behavioral Sciences
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Example Questions
Example Question #32 : Psychological Disorders And Anomalies
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the drugs of choice in the treatment of __________.
bipolar disorder
depression
schizophrenia
psychosomatic disorder
dissociative identity disorder
depression
Depression is treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Serotonin is a neurotransmitter responsible for mood. By allowing more serotonin to be active in the synapses, mood is elevated. Bipolar disorder is treated with the mood stabilizer lithium. Psychosomatic disorder is treated using biofeedback and relaxation techniques to reduce tension and spasm. Schizophrenia is treated with antipsychotic medications, also called major tranquilizers. Risperidone is one of these. The treatment for dissociative identity disorder is psychotherapy.
Example Question #33 : Psychological Disorders And Anomalies
Seasonal affective disorder has been associated with an increase in activity of which of the following proteins?
Serotonin transporter (SERT)
Glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4)
Acetylcholinesterase
MTHFR
Serotonin transporter (SERT)
Seasonal affective disorder has been associated with an increase in "serotonin transporter," or SERT. This protein is responsible for removing serotonin from the synaptic cleft and replacing it in the presynaptic neuron; therefore, it ends serotonin's signaling in the brain. Individuals with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) have been shown to have higher levels of SERT in the winter months or any condition of decreased light exposure.
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