Question

A 59 year old male farmer suffering from Parkinson’s disease is given an inhibitor of monoamine oxidase (MAO) and notices an immediate improvement in his condition. This improvement can be attributed to several indirect effects of the drug. Which of the following is least likely to be an indirect effect of the monoamine oxidase inhibitor?  
A. An increased rate of dopamine synthesis in surviving doperminergic neurons.
B. An increased level of dopamine in synaptic vescicles of surviving dopaminergic neurons.
C. An increased amount of dopamine secretion from surviving dopaminergic neurons.
D. An increased amount of dopamine bound to post synaptic receptors of surviving dopaminergic synapses.
E. An increased amount of dopamine transported back into surviving dopaminergic neurons after synaptic transmission

Based on my understanding of Monoamine oxidase, I thought A was a much suitable answer, is my assertion right? thank you.

Answer 1

Answer: Choice

Explanation: Parkinson's disease is a progressive nervous disease in which the somato-motor movements of the body are restricted due to un-controlled release of neurotransmitters. Thus, any chemical/bio-chemical/enzyme which regulates the content of these neurotransmitters would help in improving the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Monoamino oxidase or MAO is an enzyme which enhances the secretion of these neurotransmitters. Hence, inhibitors of MAO represent as a therapeutic modality to treat Parkinson's disease.