Interplay of Glutamate and GABA in Synaptic Plasticity

Very Hard Biology Nervous System

In the central nervous system (CNS), neurotransmitter release and synaptic transmission are essential for communication between neurons. A group of researchers is studying the intricate roles of various neurotransmitters in modulating synaptic plasticity and neuronal excitability. They focus on two neurotransmitters: glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter.

The researchers hypothesize that alterations in the balance of these neurotransmitters can lead to dysfunctions associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. They conduct experiments to measure the impact of increased glutamate release on synaptic strength, assessing changes in long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD). A particular focus is placed on NMDA receptors, which are crucial for synaptic plasticity.

Which of the following statements accurately describes the interplay between glutamate and GABA in the context of synaptic plasticity?

Increased glutamate release enhances GABAergic inhibition, reducing overall synaptic plasticity.

Glutamate and GABA operate independently in their action on synaptic strength, without impact on each other's activity.

Increased glutamate release can lead to a heightened state of excitation, which enhances the efficacy of GABA, facilitating inhibitory synaptic plasticity.

Glutamate serves as the only modulator of synaptic plasticity, while GABA plays no role in this process.

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