Exploring Parkinson's in Drosophila

What is a common symptom of Parkinson's disease?

• High blood pressure

• Tremors

• Increased appetite

• Rash

Answer explanation

A common symptom of Parkinson's disease is tremors, which are involuntary shaking movements. This distinguishes it from other options like high blood pressure, increased appetite, and rash, which are not typical symptoms.

Which of the following is a primary function of mitochondria in cells?

• Protein synthesis

• Energy production

• DNA replication

• Hormone secretion

Answer explanation

The primary function of mitochondria is energy production, specifically through the process of cellular respiration, where they convert nutrients into ATP, the energy currency of the cell.

Which of the following is NOT a symptom of Parkinson's disease?

• Bradykinesia

• Muscle rigidity

• Hyperactivity

• Postural instability

Answer explanation

Hyperactivity is not a symptom of Parkinson's disease. The main symptoms include bradykinesia, muscle rigidity, and postural instability, which are characteristic of the condition.

What role do mitochondria play in Parkinson's disease?

• They increase dopamine production

• They cause oxidative stress

• They repair damaged neurons

• They produce antibodies

Answer explanation

Mitochondria are crucial for energy production, but in Parkinson's disease, they can lead to oxidative stress. This stress damages neurons, contributing to the disease's progression, making 'They cause oxidative stress' the correct choice.

What is the approximate length of a Drosophila melanogaster?

• 1 metre

• 3 feet

• 3 millimetres

• 1 inch

Answer explanation

Drosophila melanogaster, commonly known as the fruit fly, is approximately 3 millimetres in length. This makes '3 millimetres' the correct choice, as the other options are significantly larger than the actual size of this insect.

Which neurotransmitter is primarily affected in Parkinson's disease?

• Serotonin

• Dopamine

• Acetylcholine

• GABA

Answer explanation

Parkinson's disease is primarily characterized by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. This leads to the hallmark symptoms of the disease, making dopamine the key neurotransmitter affected.

What is the primary advantage of using Drosophila in Parkinson's research?

• They have a complex nervous system

• They share many genes with humans

• They are immune to Parkinson's disease

• They live in diverse environments

Answer explanation

The primary advantage of using Drosophila in Parkinson's research is that they share many genes with humans, allowing researchers to study genetic factors and disease mechanisms relevant to human health.

How does mitochondrial dysfunction affect neurons in Parkinson's disease?

• It enhances neuron growth

• It leads to neuron death

• It increases neuron connectivity

• It stabilises neuron membranes

Answer explanation

Mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson's disease impairs energy production and increases oxidative stress, leading to neuronal damage and ultimately neuron death. This is a key factor in the progression of the disease.

What is the role of the PINK1 gene in relation to Parkinson's disease?

• It encodes a protein that repairs DNA

• It is involved in mitochondrial quality control

• It regulates blood sugar levels

• It produces neurotransmitters

Answer explanation

The PINK1 gene is crucial for mitochondrial quality control, helping to maintain healthy mitochondria. Its dysfunction is linked to Parkinson's disease, making this option the correct choice.

What is the primary effect of oxidative stress on neurons in Parkinson's disease?

• Increased neuron proliferation

• Neuron apoptosis

• Enhanced synaptic plasticity

• Stabilization of neuron membranes

Answer explanation

In Parkinson's disease, oxidative stress leads to neuron apoptosis, which is the programmed cell death of neurons. This process contributes to the neurodegeneration characteristic of the disease.