Final answer:
Neurotransmitter interference leads to symptoms and dictates treatments in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, with dopamine loss being central, and Alzheimer's, with decreased acetylcholine activity. Medications and therapies focus on symptom management and increasing neurotransmitter levels, while prevention strategies involve intellectual engagement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Impact of Interference in Neurotransmitter Function on Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease
The impact of interference in neurotransmitter function is evident in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. In Parkinson's, there's a loss of dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra leading to symptoms like tremor, slowed movement, and rigid muscles. Treatments aim to increase dopamine levels, commonly through the precursor L-DOPA, which becomes less effective over time. In Alzheimer's, the activity of cholinergic neurons decreases, causing cognitive decline. Treatments involve increasing acetylcholine levels using enzyme inhibitors and behavioral therapies. Both conditions have no cure, and treatments focus on symptom management. Prevention research suggests that intellectual activity may reduce Alzheimer's risk.
In summary, neurotransmitter interference is fundamental to both Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease progression and symptomatology. It guides the clinical strategies for managing these disorders.