The notion that learning a conditioned emotional response to a tone involves long-term potentiation is supported by studies in which
A) activation of NMDA receptors impairs CER learning.
B) electrical stimulation of neurons that project to the amygdala produces less overall neural firing in the amygdala.
C) CER learning is blocked when a drug prevents the insertion of AMPA receptors into dendritic spines.
D) cells of the amygdala do not show evidence of long-term potentiation.
E) few NMDA receptors are found in the amygdala.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Studies have shown that learning a conditioned emotional response (CER) to a tone involves the insertion of AMPA receptors into dendritic spines, which is related to long-term potentiation. Therefore, when a drug prevents the insertion of AMPA receptors into dendritic spines, CER learning is blocked. Choice A is incorrect because activation of NMDA receptors is necessary for long-term potentiation and therefore is likely involved in CER learning. Choice B is incorrect because electrical stimulation of neurons that project to the amygdala has been shown to enhance neural firing in the amygdala, not decrease it. Choice D is incorrect because cells of the amygdala have been shown to exhibit long-term potentiation. Choice E is incorrect because while NMDA receptors may be less abundant in the amygdala compared to other brain regions, they are still present and likely involved in CER learning.

The Notion That Learning a Conditioned Emotional Response to a Tone