Stress test.
Nov 22nd, 2007 by moon
This image is part of a stress test. For some individuals, these two dolphins may appear slightly different. This is an indicator of stress. The brains of individuals undergoing stress often have enhanced activity wherein they notice finer details. Final exams are one progenitor of stress.
It has long been observed that moderately stressful situations can lead to enhanced memory entrainment, but just how that works has yet to be elucidated. Recent work has shown that norepinephrine can have direct molecular effects at the synapse level. Effects that seem to enhance the receptors suspected in the formation of memories. The observation is that sympathetic release of hormone/neurotransmiter norepinephrine can lead to the alteration of GluR1 channels by phosphorylation.
Conversely, alcohol can have the opposite effects. P-rats. specifically bred to prefer alcohol, demonstrate gross learning deficits after a round of ‘binge-drinking’.
So, freak-out before the finals, party afterwards.
