CARN Neurobiology of Addiction 3

Question 1

Which brain region is most impaired in addiction, contributing to poor impulse control and continued drug use despite negative consequences?

Accepted Answer

Prefrontal cortex

Answer

Prefrontal cortex dysfunction in addiction impairs executive functions including inhibitory control, decision-making, and the ability to override drug-seeking behavior.

Question 2

Glutamate's role in addiction is most accurately described as:

Accepted Answer

Mediating neuroplasticity and learning that reinforces drug-seeking habits

Answer

Glutamate mediates synaptic plasticity and learning processes that strengthen drug-associated memories and habitual drug-seeking behavior.

Question 3

Kappa-opioid receptor activation is associated with which affective state that contributes to the negative reinforcement cycle of addiction?

Accepted Answer

Dysphoria and aversion

Answer

Kappa-opioid receptor activation produces dysphoria and aversive states, which during withdrawal motivates drug use to escape negative affect (negative reinforcement).

Question 4

The corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) system's role in addiction primarily involves:

Accepted Answer

Mediating stress-induced relapse and negative emotional states during withdrawal

Answer

CRF drives the stress response in the extended amygdala and is a key mediator of negative emotional states during withdrawal and stress-induced drug craving and relapse.

Question 5

Long-term potentiation (LTP) in addiction neuroscience is significant because:

Accepted Answer

It strengthens synaptic connections encoding drug-related learning and craving

Answer

LTP strengthens glutamatergic synapses encoding drug-cue associations in regions like the nucleus accumbens and amygdala, making drug memories highly persistent.

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test

CARN Neurobiology of Addiction 3