It is alleged that glutamate dysfunction in the thalamus and hippocampus leads to ________ activity in the cortex and to the development of negative symptoms in later stages of schizophrenia.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Glutamate dysfunction resulting in excitotoxicity has been proposed as a mechanism that leads to increased activity in the cortex and the development of negative symptoms in later stages of schizophrenia. Decreased BDNF has also been implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, but it is not directly related to the glutamate dysfunction in the thalamus and hippocampus. Excessive dopamine is associated with positive symptoms of schizophrenia, but it is not directly linked to the thalamus and hippocampus glutamate dysfunction. Therefore, choice C is the best answer. Choice D can also be correct, but it is not specific enough in identifying the role of glutamate dysfunction in the thalamus and hippocampus.

It Is Alleged That Glutamate Dysfunction in the Thalamus and Hippocampus