Dysfunction of the brain can involve which of the following?

• A. Can involve the neurons, the neurotransmitter substances, or the receptor sites
• B. Only the blood vessels
• C. Only the neurons
• D. Only muscle tissue

Answer: (A)

Dysfunction in the brain stems from problems in the signaling system that communicates between cells: the neurons themselves, the chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) they release, and the receptor sites that receive those signals. If neurons are damaged or die, signaling is disrupted. If neurotransmitter levels are off or their release is abnormal, communication falters. If receptor sites are altered or blocked, messages aren’t properly received even when neurons and neurotransmitters are functioning. This makes the option that brain dysfunction can involve neurons, neurotransmitter substances, or receptor sites the most complete answer. While issues with blood vessels or muscle tissue can cause brain symptoms in some conditions, they don’t encompass all the ways brain signaling can go awry.