Neuroscience MCAT Practice Question
Long-term potentiation (LTP) is induced in hippocampal CA1 neurons following high-frequency stimulation of Schaffer collaterals. This triggers calcium influx through NMDA receptors, activating kinases including CaMKII. CaMKII phosphorylates AMPA receptor subunits (GluR1), promoting their insertion into the postsynaptic membrane. What is the molecular consequence of increased GluR1-containing AMPA receptors?
Answer choices
- ADecreased calcium permeability of the postsynaptic membrane
- BEnhanced excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSC) amplitudeCorrect answer
- CReduced glutamate binding affinity at the synapse
- DDecreased frequency of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents
- EPresynaptic inhibition via GABA release
- FIncreased internalization of NMDA receptors from the postsynaptic membrane
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