Posted by katekite on August 16, 2002, at 18:05:06
In reply to Re: Need to pick somebody's brains?, posted by denise528 on August 16, 2002, at 3:38:46
How could blocking a receptor help alleviate depression?
It would, if allowing that receptor to fill with neurotransmitter causes depression. For example, the firing or signalling of some neurons may increase anxiety or depression. If one can block the receptors on those neurons the neuron won't transmit a signal and you won't be as anxious. Sort of like two negatives equals a positive. More neuron firing is not always a good thing.
A similar situation is using beta blockers for performance anxiety. Normally during public speaking my heart races. This is due to beta receptors being activated (because my brain thinks I'd better run away very fast and my heart better go at the speed needed to run). If I took a beta blocker, the receptors are blocked, and my heart stays at a normal rate.
kate
poster:katekite
thread:116547
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020814/msgs/116655.html