The excitotoxicity hypothesis states that
A) repeated stimulation of neurons is the basis for learning and memory.
B) tetanic stimulation of the presynaptic neuron can produce LTP in the recipient cell.
C) overexposure to excitatory amino acids is cause by prolonged depolarization of receptive neurons and cell death.
D) glutamate and aspartate play a critical role in the action of drugs like PCP.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The excitotoxicity hypothesis proposes that excessive activation of glutamate receptors, particularly N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, can result in prolonged depolarization and an influx of calcium ions, eventually leading to neuronal death. This is believed to be a contributing factor in a number of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's. The other options are related to synaptic plasticity and the effects of neurotransmitters on the brain, but they do not pertain specifically to excitotoxicity.

The Excitotoxicity Hypothesis States That