The Focus on Neuroscience box "Dopamine Receptors and Obesity" discussed a study in which the diet of rats was manipulated. One group ate rat chow-a nutritionally balanced diet-while the other group ate junk food-high-fat, sugary foods. What happened to the rats on the junk-food diet?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The study discussed in the Focus on Neuroscience box found that rats on a junk-food diet had a significantly reduced dopamine response, particularly in the part of the brain associated with reward and pleasure. This reduced dopamine response could potentially contribute to overeating and obesity, as the rats may need to consume more food to experience the same reward and pleasure sensation.

The Focus on Neuroscience Box "Dopamine Receptors and Obesity" Discussed