My Time at Concordia So Far

Concordia College’s Integrated Science Center

 

When I was in high school searching for schools to go to after graduation, I knew Concordia would be at the top of my list. Since at least 7th grade I’ve taken multiple 2.5-hour trips to Moorhead with my mom to visit her alma mater. I am now the third person in my family to attend Concordia following my mom and her sister.

Loving Learning

I chose Concordia ultimately because of financial aid and the fact it had Neuroscience. I wasn’t truly concerned about the concept of liberal learning. My understanding of liberal arts was that you were able to take multiple classes in multiple subjects, but I didn’t understand the value. My sophomore year is when I began to experience this when I took Religion 200. I came into college thinking I would major in Psychology and Neuroscience and just that. Never in a million years would I think I would enjoy taking a religion class and let alone it leading me to take on a religion minor.  Attending a liberal arts institution allowed me to explore and get out of my comfort zone to find something I am passionate about. I can now feel comfortable facing new things.

Before I came to college, I struggled with school. Things were hard to understand, I couldn’t pay attention, and I didn’t enjoy learning half of the things I was taught. From elementary school on, each year I got increasingly better at academics. I went from taking remedial classes and needing an individualized education plan to being completely independent, planning my own education, and taking advanced and college level courses. But because of my past issues with school, I was scared for college. I was very fearful I would start to fail classes and drop out. Well, it happened, my worst fear came true. My freshmen year starting in fall of 2020, I had very poor grades and I failed a class. I had attributed that to the format Concordia had taken on due to COVID and I decided to carry on will school with a few back up ideas. Sure enough, I got the proper support from Concordia and my professors, and my grades did a complete 180. I had never gotten this type of support before, not even from my small school where I graduated with 70 people. That support helped me to enjoy learning in a whole new way.

 

Learning New Things

Once the in-person format came back, I started to get better grades and I began to enjoy school. I had this insane drive to learn and succeed. I would attribute this drive to a few classes, one of which was this class, Neurochemistry. I was slightly nervous for this class but if this institution taught me anything is to face challenges head on and accept fear. I was also certain this class would be pretty bland. The format of this class was unexpected. That is probably what saved this class from the more boring parts. This format made me excited to leave my apartment every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday around 7:30-8:00 AM. I was in control of what I wanted to learn, and it felt more collaborative than just sitting there as the student listening to the professor lecture. This class helped me become more grounded in my goal to go to graduate school. I truly would love to take this class for the rest of my life, and I never want to stop learning this material.

One skill that I improved on in this class was writing and reading. I was surprised to find myself enjoying writing and reading. I had struggled with both since I was a child, and it was very frustrating because it drained me and took up a lot of time. Reading academic articles is different than reading anything else. The assignments breaking down each section of the paper, summarizing each point, and researching things we do not understand was the main thing that helped me learn how to read these articles better. In turn, this also helped me write. Learning how to integrate articles in a way that is interesting made it more fun for me to write. Additionally, the “And But Therefore” model changed the way I write. Making science accessible has been a passion of mine for some time, but it is very limited because science can be quite boring. Having the “And But Therefore” model makes science more interesting.

Another thing I enjoyed about this class was the integration of different disciplines. It wasn’t all just neuroscience or chemistry. It was also sociology, psychology, or nutrition. This class wasn’t just about learning how signaling worked, it was also about how these things affect everyday people. Our discussions were incredibly diverse. We talked about the science of the topic for the week, but we also talked about how it may affect people in other countries, or why other countries have higher quality of life or why some countries had lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease. We had the space to talk about issues that concerned each of us, and we could apply each of our perspectives to the issue at hand.

 

Overall, this class and my time at Concordia helped me understand the value of my perspective in every situation. It feels like I just started school yesterday and now I only have a year left. I feel like I still have so much more to do at Concordia, but my time is almost up, and I am so excited for what this next year will bring.

Nootropics

Have you ever wondered if you could increase your mental performance and think more clearly? Ever heard of Nootropics, which claim to do just that? While seeming promising, there are some important things to know about Nootropics.

What are Nootropics?

Nootropics can be easily identified as certain compounds or supplements that enhance cognitive performance. Nootropics work by increasing mental functions such as memory, creativity, motivation, and attention.[3] In other words, Nootropics are claimed to enhance certain aspects of basic brain performance beyond a state of normal cognitive function in conditions of health and disease.[2] Dated back to 6,000 BCE there are documents of “Medhya Rasayanas” which are a group of medicinal plants that improve memory and intelligence. One of the first documents of Nootropics, as the plants in this list include Ashwaganda, Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi), and Jyotismatir.[2]

Some more common examples of Nootropics include gingko biloba, American ginseng, Bacopa monnieri, Rhodiola rosea to name a few.[3] Bacopa monnieri is known as to be used for nervous system disorders such as insomnia, anxiety, and epilepsy and is found to stimulate and enhance memory and intellect. Ginkgo biloba has been shown to have neuroprotective effects from acting as an antioxidant and inhibiting amyloid beta aggregation as seen in Alzheimer’s disease. Panax, or American ginseng has been studied to improve memory performance. Lastly, Rhodiola rosea is similar to an antioxidant agent and has been shown to have neuroprotective and antioxidant effects.[3]

These plant derived nootropics as defined in the DSM-5 exert on specific neurocognitive domains. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th version (DSM-5) there are six neurocognitive domains which include perceptual and motor, language, learning and memory, social cogntion, attention, and executive functioning. Therefore, claiming that nootropics should have an effect on at least one of the six domains to be effective for enhancing cognition. [4]

Figure 2: An example of the different Nootropics and their effects on any of the six domains as classified by the DSM-5.[2]

L-theanine and Caffeine

One interesting nootropic to look more closely at is L-theanine. L-theanine is an amino acid found in green tea that has been shown to affect brain functions by relieving stress disorders, improving mood, and helping to maintain normal sleep. In this study it suggests that L-theanine improves attentional function and working memory.[1] Interestingly, L-theanine and caffeine are both in green tea or matcha. L-theanine works as a depressant and caffeine works as a stimulant.[1] Therefore, how the two work together to increase attention could be important to look into for further studies.

Overall, there needs to be more research on nootropics and supplements which claim to increase focus, attention, or significantly improve neurocognition. Supplements with these claims have nootropic ingredients as previously mentioned, however most of them do not specify the amount of each nootropic in the supplement. As supplements are typically unregulated by the FDA and therefore could have other ingredients in them that are more harmful than good. In the nutrition world, it is best to know that supplements if anything should be ‘supplemental’ to food. Therefore, good nutritious food and exercise have been shown to have substantial positive effects on the brain and are cheaper than buying a new nootropic or supplement claiming to improve cognition.

Work Cited:

  1. Baba, Yoshitake et al. “Effects of l-Theanine on Cognitive Function in Middle-Aged and Older Subjects: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study.”Journal of medicinal food  24,4 (2021): 333-341. doi:10.1089/jmf.2020.4803

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8080935/

  1. Cristina Lorca, María Mulet, Catalina Arévalo-Caro, M. Ángeles Sanchez, Ainhoa Perez, María Perrino, Anna Bach-Faig, Alicia Aguilar-Martínez, Elisabet Vilella, Xavier Gallart-Palau & Aida Serra(2022) Plant-derived nootropics and human cognition: A systematic review, Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, DOI: 1080/10408398.2021.2021137

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10408398.2021.2021137

  1. Suliman, Noor Azuin et al. “Establishing Natural Nootropics: Recent Molecular Enhancement Influenced by Natural Nootropic.”Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM  2016 (2016): 4391375. doi:10.1155/2016/4391375 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5021479/
  2. Morè, Lorenzo, et al. “Enhancing cognition through pharmacological and environmental interventions: Examples from preclinical models of neurodevelopmental disorders.”Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews 110 (2020): 28-45.

The Highs and Lows of Cannabis: Exploring the Science Behind the Endocannabinoid System

 

iStock Photo. Cannabis hand drawn. 

Cannabis is a plant that has been used for medicinal, recreational, and spiritual purposes for thousands of years. It contains over 100 active compounds known as cannabinoids, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which are the most well-known compounds and interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce various physiological and psychological effects.

 

CBD vs THC

THC is psychoactive and produces a “high” when consumed, whereas CBD does not produce a high and is not intoxicating. THC is known for its pain-relieving properties and is often used to alleviate symptoms of conditions such as chronic pain, nausea, and glaucoma. CBD, on the other hand, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antipsychotic, and anti-anxiety effects, and is often used to alleviate symptoms of conditions such as anxiety, epilepsy, and insomnia. Both CBD and THC can have side effects, such as dry mouth, dizziness, and fatigue, but they are generally considered safe when consumed in moderation [1].

 

History of Cannabis

Cannabis has been used by humans for thousands of years for medicinal, spiritual, and recreational purposes. It is believed to have originated in Central Asia and spread throughout the world through trade and migration.

Ancient civilizations such as the Chinese, Egyptians, and Greeks used cannabis for various purposes, including pain relief, anxiety, and religious ceremonies. In the 19th century, cannabis was widely used in Western medicine, but its popularity declined with the advent of synthetic drugs.

In the 20th century, cannabis was criminalized in many countries due to its association with drug abuse and social unrest. However, in recent years, there has been a growing movement towards legalization and acceptance of cannabis for both medicinal and recreational use [2].

 

Alcohol vs Cannabis and the Human Brain

Both alcohol and cannabis can affect the human brain in different ways. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that can impair cognitive and motor functions, leading to impaired judgment, slowed reaction times, and decreased inhibitions. Chronic alcohol abuse can also cause brain damage and increase the risk of neurological disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

In contrast, cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids, which can have both psychoactive and therapeutic effects. THC, the main psychoactive component in cannabis, can cause short-term memory impairment, altered perception of time, and impaired coordination. However, cannabinoids have also been shown to have potential therapeutic benefits for conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy. Overall, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of alcohol and cannabis on the human brain [3].

 

Long-term Exposure to Cannabis

Long-term exposure to cannabis can have negative effects on a person’s physical and mental health. Chronic use of cannabis can lead to respiratory problems, such as chronic bronchitis and lung cancer, as well as cardiovascular problems, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Cannabis use can lead to dependency, which is characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior and withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use. While cannabis dependency is less severe than addiction to other drugs, it can still have negative impacts on an individual’s life and health. Research suggests that around 9% of cannabis users develop a dependency, and this risk is higher for those who begin using at a young age or use frequently. Additionally, the potency and method of use (such as smoking versus edibles) can also affect the risk of developing a dependency. It is important to monitor one’s cannabis use and seek help if dependency is suspected.

Additionally, long-term cannabis use can lead to the development of cannabis dependency, which can cause withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, insomnia, and decreased appetite. However, it is important to note that not everyone who uses cannabis will develop dependency, and the risk of dependency can be influenced by various factors, including genetics and environmental factors [4].

 

CB1 and CB2

CB1 and CB2 are two receptors in the human body that are part of the endocannabinoid system. CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are mainly found in the immune system and peripheral tissues. When cannabis is consumed, its active compounds, such as THC, bind to these receptors, leading to various physiological and psychological effects. THC primarily binds to CB1 receptors, which can lead to euphoria, relaxation, and altered perception. CBD, another active compound in cannabis, does not directly bind to these receptors but can modulate their activity and influence the effects of THC. Understanding the role of CB1 and CB2 receptors in cannabis effects is important for developing targeted therapies and minimizing adverse effects.

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex signaling network that is present throughout the body, including the central nervous system (CNS). The ECS is comprised of endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes that work together to regulate various physiological processes, such as mood, appetite, pain sensation, and memory. In the CNS, the ECS plays a critical role in regulating neuronal activity and neurotransmitter release, helping to maintain homeostasis and support proper brain function. The two main types of ECS receptors, CB1 and CB2, are expressed in the CNS, with CB1 being particularly abundant in the brain. Activation of CB1 receptors can modulate neuronal excitability and neurotransmitter release, and dysregulation of the ECS has been implicated in various neurological disorders [5].

Figure 1. Cannabinoid Receptors Signaling 

Resources

[1] MediLexicon International. (n.d.). CBD vs. THC: Differences, benefits, and effects. Medical News Today. Retrieved May 1, 2023, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325871#legality

[2] Crocq, M.-A. (2020, September). History of cannabis and the endocannabinoid system
. Dialogues in clinical neuroscience. Retrieved May 1, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7605027/

[3] Noorbakhsh, S., Afzali, M. H., Boers, E., & Conrod, P. J. (2020, March 2). Cognitive function impairments linked to alcohol and cannabis use during adolescence: A study of gender differences. Frontiers. Retrieved May 1, 2023, from https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2020.00095/full

[4] U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2023, April 17). What are marijuana’s long-term effects on the brain?National Institutes of Health. Retrieved May 1, 2023, from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/what-are-marijuanas-long-term-effects-brain

[5] Kendall, D. A., & Yudowski, G. A. (2017). Cannabinoid receptors in the central nervous system: Their signaling and roles in disease. Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/fncel.2016.00294

Nootropics and Intellectual Disability

Someone with an intellectual disability has issues with intellectual functioning and adaptive functioning. Intellectual functioning is often measured by an IQ test, a score around 70 constitutes intellectual dysfunction. Overall, someone with low intellectual functioning may have problems with reasoning, problem solving, abstract thinking, or judgment. Adaptive functioning includes empathy, social skills, communication, personal care, money management, and job responsibilities. The onset of symptoms begins during a developmental period of life, like early childhood. Causes of intellectual disability include genetic conditions, viral infection, exposures to toxins, or head trauma. Some of this may happen during pregnancy or birth.1

Nootropics

There are ways to enhance neuronal activity. One route is through nootropics. Nootropics activate cognitive functions like memory and learning. They especially help in cases where there is damage or degeneration of the brain. Nootropics are used for treating cognitive issues in Alzheimer’s and schizophrenia. Some nootropics are used by students to help with studying. But use of nootropics in healthy individuals is not studied extensively for effectiveness.2 Overall, Nootropics are safe with some occasional complications case to case. Thus, it is important to consult a doctor before supplementing with nootropics regardless of the presence of cognitive issues or not.

Nootropics and Intellectual Disability

One thing nootropics can do is increase brain derived neurotropic factor, BDNF. BDNF plays a role in repairing damage in the brain and memory. A large player in intellectual disability is BDNF. In intellectual disability, BDNF is low.3

Ashwagandha (figure 1) is a popular nootropic that is a wood-like plant often ground up into a powder and put into capsules. It has been used for about 3000 years in ancient India, specifically a medical practice called Ayurvedic. In supplementation of Ashwagandha, it was found to increase executive functioning, sustained attention, and memory.4

Figure 1. Ashwagandha plant and ashwagandha powder. 

In a study with a high fat diet in rats, cognitive deficits were created. The high fat diet rats were compared to rats with a regular diet and supplementation with ashwagandha and rats with a high fat diet and ashwagandha supplementation. Each of the rats treated with ashwagandha showed an improvement of cognition as well as higher BDNF production compared to the high fat diet rats.5 Because of this finding of increased BDNF with ashwagandha supplementation, it would be worth it to see if ashwagandha could help treat intellectually disability specifically. But this has yet to be studied.

Food Nootropics

Nootropics do not have to come in the form of a pill. To increase BDNF you can simply eat. Foods that may help include dark chocolate, blueberries, extra-virgin olive oil, and fish with good omega-3 fatty acids. Generally, antioxidants, magnesium, curcumin, and zinc are some things to look for.6

It is important to note that BDNF levels are different in each person and you to not have to have an intellectually disability to want to increase your BDNF. People usually start worrying about their cognitive decline when they are in their 60s, but cognitive decline gradually starts at 24 years old with it speeding up around 40 years old.7 It is not too early to start supporting your cognitive health.

 

  1. American Psychiatric Association. (2021). What is Intellectual Disability? https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/intellectual-disability/what-is-intellectual-disability
  2. Matěj, M., & Pavel, T. (2022). Nootropics as cognitive enhancers: types, dosage and side effects of smart drugs, 14(3367), 3367–3367. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14163367
  3. Morè, L., Lauterborn, J. C., Papaleo, F., & Brambilla, R. (2020). Enhancing cognition through pharmacological and environmental interventions: examples from preclinical models of neurodevelopmental disorders. Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews110, 28–45. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.02.003
  4. Xing, D., Yoo, C., Gonzalez, D., Jenkins, V., Nottingham, K., Dickerson, B., Leonard, M., Ko, J., Faries, M., Kephart, W., Purpura, M., Jäger, R., Sowinski, R., Rasmussen, C. J., & Kreider, R. B. (2022). Effects of acute ashwagandha ingestion on cognitive function. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health19(19), 11852–11852. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191911852
  5. Manchanda, S., & Kaur, G. (2017). Withania somnifera leaf alleviates cognitive dysfunction by enhancing hippocampal plasticity in high fat diet induced obesity model. Bmc Complementary and Alternative Medicine17(1), 136–136. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-017-1652-0
  6. Strong Coffee Company. (2020). How to increase your BDNF: 10 ways to rescue your brain. https://strongcoffeecompany.com/blogs/strong-words/how-to-increase-bdnf-10-ways-to-rescue-your-brain
  7. Onaolapo, A. Y., Obelawo, A. Y., & Onaolapo, O. J. (2019). Brain ageing, cognition and diet: a review of the emerging roles of food-based nootropics in mitigating age-related memory decline. Current Aging Science12(1), 2–14. https://doi.org/10.2174/1874609812666190311160754

Endocannabinoid System: Marijuana as Treatment for Disease?

Endocannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system are a fairly recent area of study in the science world. When one just looks at the word “endocannabinoid,” probably one of the first things that comes to mind is “weed” or cannabis. This thought is valid and partially correct as the cannabinoids found in cannabis are incredibly similar to the ones naturally produced by our bodies, the endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids are neurotransmitters that are released in the body as necessary, and they assist with multiple bodily functions. The two main endocannabinoids are arachidonyl ethanolamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). Hydrolases and lipases break these endocannabinoids down after carrying out a response. 

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

The ECS is a biological system that contributes to the regulation of various bodily functions: 

  • Metabolism
  • Sleep
  • Pain
  • Immune responses
  • Homeostasis

These responses are triggered when an endocannabinoid binds to cannabinoid receptors on the surface of cells. Depending on the type of receptor and where in the body the endocannabinoid is binding to such a receptor, a variety of responses can be carried out. The two primary receptors are CB1 and CB2 receptors which are G-protein coupled receptors with endocannabinoids as their agonists.

CB1: Present in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Binding to CB1 can result in pain relief.

CB2: Present in the peripheral nervous system and immune system. Binding to CB2 can result in anti-inflammatory responses. 

 

ECS and Neurodegenerative Disease

Recent studies have found potential therapeutic targets of the ECS in neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and Multiple Sclerosis. No, this does not involve smoking marijuana as a treatment for these diseases. In general for these diseases, it was found that increased expression of CB1 and CB2 creates neuroprotective effects and increases synaptic plasticity. In the case of Alzheimer’s, activation of these receptors even prevented amyloid beta plaque buildup, characteristic of the onset of Alzheimer’s disease! Although these findings are quite promising, there are still many challenges to concur before these treatments are put into practice. Due to the widespread expression of endocannabinoids and their variable role in excitatory and inhibitory processes, there is still much to learn about this vast system. 

ECS and Drug Abuse

The ECS plays a key role in our bodies reward pathways, both natural and drug-related. Endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors are highly expressed in the mesocorticolimbic system which houses most of the body’s dopamine pathways. With drug addiction, endocannabinoids and their receptors participate in compulsion, maintenance of drug consumption, and the loss of control seen with addicted individuals. The ECS is modified by drug consumption and even further modified with addiction, contributing to such addiction. 

On a brighter note, research is currently being done to target the ECS to treat addiction. A negative allosteric modulator for the CB1 receptor and inhibitor of the CB2 receptor are being studied as a hopeful treatment of the overactive ECS we see in addicted individuals! There are even studies that show the use of CBD or marijuana as a potential treatment for drug addiction as it has a power to reduce cravings and increase the feeling of reward without the drug of addiction. Basically, using other drugs to treat drug addiction! Makes sense, right? That is the beauty of the endocannabinoid system!

References

De Pietro, M. (2021). “What to know about endocannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system.” Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/endocannabinoid#production.

Kendall, D. A., & Yudowski, G. A. (2017). Cannabinoid receptors in the central nervous system: their signaling and roles in disease. Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/fncel.2016.00294

Manzanares, J. et al.  Role of the endocannabinoid system in drug addiction. Biochem Pharmacol 2018, 157:108-121. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30217570/.

Navarrete, F.; García-Gutiérrez, M.S.; Gasparyan, A.; Navarro, D.; López-Picón, F.; Morcuende, Á.; Femenía, T.; Manzanares, J. Biomarkers of the Endocannabinoid System in Substance Use Disorders. Biomolecules 2022, 12, 396. https://www.mdpi.com/2218-273X/12/3/396.

Breaking Down Metabolic Syndrome: The Silent Threat to Our Health

 

 

Artstract on DALL.E

Metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions including obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels, has been shown to have significant effects on the gut microbiome. Studies have found that individuals with metabolic syndrome have a less diverse microbiome, with decreased abundance of beneficial bacteria and increased abundance of harmful bacteria. These changes in the microbiome have been linked to increased inflammation, insulin resistance, and other aspects of metabolic syndrome. Additionally, some research suggests that alterations in the microbiome may contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome. Further studies are needed to fully elucidate the complex relationship between metabolic syndrome and the gut microbiome but targeting the microbiome may offer new avenues for treatment and prevention of metabolic syndrome [1].

 

Hypothalamic Microglia and Metabolic Syndrome

Hypothalamic microglia are a type of immune cell found in the hypothalamus region of the brain, which plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and energy balance. In Metabolic syndrome, chronic low-grade inflammation can occur in the hypothalamus, leading to dysfunction of hypothalamic microglia, and subsequently, metabolic dysregulation. These activated microglia can release pro-inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species, which impair the function of hypothalamic neurons and promote insulin resistance, obesity, and other components of Metabolic syndrome. Modulating the function of hypothalamic microglia could potentially be a therapeutic target for treating Metabolic syndrome and associated diseases [2].

Figure 1. Factors impacting myeloid cells in the MBH to regulate hypothalamic control of energy homeostasis


Social and Environmental Factors

Metabolic syndrome is influenced by a variety of social and environmental factors. Lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, and stress can contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome. In addition, social determinants of health such as low socioeconomic status and limited access to healthcare can also increase the risk of metabolic syndrome. Environmental factors such as pollution and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals may also play a role in the development of metabolic syndrome. Addressing these social and environmental factors through public health policies, community-based interventions, and individual behavior change may help reduce the burden of metabolic syndrome and related health complications [3].

Vegetable oils, such as corn, soybean, and canola oil, have been linked to an increased risk of obesity. These oils are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which are pro-inflammatory and can promote insulin resistance, a key factor in the development of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Additionally, these oils are often used in processed and fried foods, which are high in calories and may contribute to overconsumption. Replacing these oils with healthier fats, such as olive oil or avocado oil, may have beneficial effects on weight and overall health. Reducing the intake of processed and fried foods, in general, can also promote a healthier diet and lower the risk of obesity.

Processed sugar is a major contributor to the obesity epidemic. Consuming large amounts of sugar, particularly in the form of sugary drinks and processed foods, can lead to weight gain and other health complications. Excess sugar intake can contribute to insulin resistance, a key factor in the development of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Sugar also lacks important nutrients and can displace more nutrient-dense foods in the diet, leading to overall poor dietary quality. Reducing the intake of processed sugar is an important step in preventing and managing obesity, and can have numerous other health benefits.

[4]

Figure 2. Social and Environmental Factors


Interventions

Lifestyle interventions such as diet modification, regular exercise, and weight loss are the first-line treatments for metabolic syndrome. Medications may also be used to control blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. In addition, some studies have shown that certain supplements and herbs, such as omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and green tea, may have potential benefits in managing metabolic syndrome. Bariatric surgery may also be considered in individuals with severe obesity and metabolic complications. Overall, the treatment of metabolic syndrome requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both lifestyle factors and medical management [5].

 

Resources

[1] Jais, A., & Brüning, J. C. (2017, January 3). Hypothalamic inflammation in obesity and metabolic disease. The Journal of Clinical Investigation. Retrieved May 1, 2023, from https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI88878

[2] Folick, A., Cheang, R. T., Valdearcos, M., & Koliwad, S. K. (2022, April). Metabolic factors in the regulation of hypothalamic innate immune responses in obesity. Experimental & molecular medicine. Retrieved May 1, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9076660/

[3] Ghosh, S., Dhar, S., Bhattacharjee, S., & Bhattacharjee, P. (2023, April 11). Contribution of environmental, genetic and epigenetic factors to obesity-related metabolic syndrome – the nucleus. SpringerLink. Retrieved May 1, 2023, from https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13237-023-00420-y

[4] Beulens, J. W. J., Pinho, M. G. M., Abreu, T. C., den Braver, N. R., Lam, T. M., Huss, A., Vlaanderen, J., Sonnenschein, T., Siddiqui, N. Z., Yuan, Z., Kerckhoffs, J., Zhernakova, A., Brandao Gois, M. F., & Vermeulen, R. C. H. (2021, November 18). Environmental risk factors of type 2 diabetes-an exposome approach – diabetologia. SpringerLink. Retrieved May 1, 2023, from https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00125-021-05618-w

[5] Saboya, P. P., Bodanese, L. C., Zimmermann, P. R., Gustavo, A. da S., Macagnan, F. E., Feoli, A. P., & Oliveira, M. da S. (2017, January). Lifestyle intervention on metabolic syndrome and its impact on quality of life: A randomized controlled trial. Arquivos brasileiros de cardiologia. Retrieved May 1, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5245849/

How Neurochemistry Shaped My Future

Welcome to my final blog post of the semester! As an international student from Rwanda studying at Concordia, my experiences in the neurochemistry class have been unique and have allowed me to integrate and apply the skills and competencies that I have gained throughout my education here.

At Concordia, the emphasis on liberal learning and becoming responsibly engaged in the world has been a guiding principle for me. In particular, the five goals for liberal learning have been instrumental in shaping my educational experience. As an international student, I have found that these goals have been especially important in helping me develop a better understanding of American culture and its connections to my own culture.

Over the course of the semester, I have gained a deeper understanding of neurochemistry and its connections to other disciplines such as biology, psychology, and pharmacology. By examining neurochemistry from these interdisciplinary perspectives, I have developed a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of this field. This learning has allowed me to apply my foundational skills and transferable intellectual capacities in new and exciting ways.

In addition to enhancing my understanding of neurochemistry, the skills and competencies I have gained in this class are highly applicable to my future aspirations of becoming a healthcare professional. As an international student from Rwanda, I am well aware of the challenges that lie ahead in pursuing a career in medicine. However, instead of being discouraged by these barriers, I feel more determined than ever to overcome them and make a positive impact in the healthcare industry. The insights gained from studying neurochemistry have given me the confidence to tackle complex problems and approach patient care from a holistic perspective. With a deep understanding of how the human body and mind function, I am confident that I can provide excellent care to patients from all backgrounds. Ultimately, I believe that the skills and competencies I have gained through this course will be instrumental in achieving my long-term goals of becoming a compassionate and competent healthcare professional.

To me, learning at a liberal arts institution like Concordia means developing a well-rounded understanding of the world that prepares me to be a responsible and engaged citizen, not just in the United States but also in my home country of Rwanda. It means approaching problems from multiple perspectives, cultivating my own sense of self-awareness and ethical responsibility, and developing the skills and competencies necessary to be successful in a rapidly changing world.

One of the skills that I have improved upon this semester is my ability to think critically and solve problems using multiple disciplinary perspectives. As an international student, I have had to navigate cultural differences and overcome language barriers to succeed in this class. Having a supportive professor and a positive classroom environment played a crucial role in my success.

Overall, I am grateful for the opportunity to study neurochemistry at Concordia and to apply the skills and competencies that I have gained throughout my education here. As an international student with aspirations of going to medical school, I know that the journey ahead will be challenging. However, I am confident that my experiences at Concordia have prepared me well for this journey, and I look forward to applying these skills and competencies as I pursue my future goals in healthcare.

Reference:

https://catalog.concordiacollege.edu/core-curriculum/goals-liberal-learning/

Psychopathy EXPLAINED

What is Psychopathy?

Psychopathy can be characterized as an individual who has shallow emotional response, lack of empathy, impulsivity and an increased likelihood for antisocial behavior. No this does not mean that one day of being emotionless or not wanting to have emotions makes you a psychopath. There are a lot of components going into a psychopathic diagnosis. One interesting statistic is that by Hare’s psychopathy checklist-revised, psychopaths make up around 20% of the prison population in North America.[1] Considering this statistic, psychopaths are prone to violence and usually have increased aggressive behavior therefore commit a greater number of violent attacks compared to non-psychopaths.[1]

There is a possible relation to having a certain gene increasing susceptibility to psychopathy. An individual could inherit a specific genetic pathway toward psychopathy which is associated with low-expression variant of Monoamine Oxidase (MAO-A) gene. The MAO-A gene functions to encode an enzyme that degrade dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. There has been research on the MAO-A polymorphisms tied to short allele and psychopathic and antisocial traits.[2]

 

Psychopathy versus Antisocial Personality Disorder

Psychopathy: psychopaths characterized as selfish, domineering, irresponsible, impulsive, fearless, shallow, as well as lacking empathy and remorse. Not restricted to people showing criminal or deviant behavior, therefore may also be found in “socially well-adjusted and successful individuals”.[4]

Antisocial personality Disorder: characterized as lack of self-control (prefrontal cortex), low avoidance of punishment and negative stimuli (amygdala), and heightened sensitivity to rewarding stimuli (striatum).[4]

Figure 1: Comparison of antisocial personality disorder and psychopathy as they relate to Dis-social behaviors and personality disorders.[4]

 

What is going on in the brain?

In psychopathy it was found that there are deficits in frontal, temporal, and subcortical limbic structures of the brain. Overall, there was reduced amygdala function found in adult psychopaths and a failure of top-down regulatory control of ventral PFC. Therefore, emotional blunting was found in those diagnosed as psychopaths. Along with this the amygdala, commonly known for control of processing fear, plays a role in the emergence of aggressive behaviors sometimes associated with psychopathy as it has been found that the amygdala is smaller in those with psychopathy. For violent or aggressive behaviors, there could also be a correlation to reduced glucose metabolism in the corpus callosum. Interestingly enough, the striatum which consists of caudate, putamen, nucleus accumbent, and globus pallidus is found to be enlarged by 9.6% in psychopaths.[3] Lastly, psychopathy is associated with substance abuse, or that sensation-seeking behavior, which could produce orbitofrontal impairments.

Possible correlations to alcohol…

During the in-womb development it has been noted that consumption of alcohol could be associated to increased childhood aggression. This as evidenced by a “longitudinal study of over 100,000 men documented that prenatal nutritional deficiency is associated with a 2.5 fold increased risk for Antisocial Personality Disorder in adulthood”. Interestingly enough, certain nutrient deficiencies have been associated with aggressive and antisocial behavior including low levels of omega-3 and zinc which play a role in building up omega-3 fatty acids critical for neural development. Early brain maldevelopment could be due to reduced zinc levels which involves the amygdala and hippocampus.[3]

Overall, there are a lot of components that go into how to screen for psychopathy. With around 1-2% of the adult general population with this diagnosis, psychopathy is a prominent mental health disorder compared to other psychological diagnoses.[1]

Work Cited

  1. Anderson NE, Kiehl KA. Psychopathy: developmental perspectives and their implications for treatment. Restor Neurol Neurosci. 2014;32(1):103-17. doi: 10.3233/RNN-139001. PMID: 23542910; PMCID: PMC4321752.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4321752/#:~:text=Psychopathy%20is%20a%20neuropsychiatric%20disorder,antisocial%20deviance%20and%20criminal%20behavior
  2. Frazier A, Ferreira PA, Gonzales JE. Born this way? A review of neurobiological and environmental evidence for the etiology of psychopathy. Personal Neurosci. 2019 Oct 23;2:e8. doi: 10.1017/pen.2019.7. PMID: 32435743; PMCID: PMC7219694.
  3. Raine A. (2018). Antisocial Personality as a Neurodevelopmental Disorder. Annual review of clinical psychology, 14, 259-289. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-050817-084819
  4. Weber, S. Habel, U., Amunts, K., Schneider, F. (2008). Structural brain abnormalities in psychopaths – a review. Behavioral Sciences & the Law, 26(1), 7-28. https://doi-org.cordproxy.mnpals.net/10.1002/bsl.802.

Eating…More Complex than it Appears

What is obesity?

Obesity is considered to be an excessive or abnormal buildup of fat that causes risk to one’s health. Body mass index is how this is normally determined with people over 25 being labeled as overweight (Fig. 1). However, BMI is not always the most accurate representation because body mass can also be muscle weight instead of fat. For example, a body builder will obviously weigh more because of their muscle, but this does not mean they are obese. Society seems to have a stigma associated with the term “obese”, but the brain functioning behind this need to eat is important to understand. Furthermore, the problems with obesity do not stop there; the after-effects of the condition can include type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Fig 1. This graph shows how BMI is calculated. (3)

The hypothalamus and Obesity

One of the main components that plays a role in obesity relates to the hypothalamus, which is known for its role in homeostasis. The hypothalamus controls metabolic feedback and regulates energy homeostasis, so it has important influences on feeding behavior and energy spending. How does the hypothalamus do this? It is able to sense and integrate feedback from adipostatic hormones that are responsible for circulation of nutrients to adipose tissue. Specifically, leptin and insulin directly affect the ARC of the hypothalamus that works with energy homeostasis. However, neuronal inflammation and insulin and leptin resistance of the ARC neurons disrupts the metabolic feedback loop, which causes an increase food intake and body weight gain. Overconsumption of fat-rich diets changes the feedback sent to leptin and insulin, causing hypothalamus inflammation.

Further Inflammation caused by Saturated Fatty Acids

Inflammation can be worsened with other factors as well. One factor that plays a role in this are cytokines; they are small proteins that are vital in controlling the growth and activity of other cells. However, during diet-induced obesity, cytokines are overactivated, which farther leads to more hypothalamic inflammation. Saturated fatty acids can modulate neuronal control of energetic homeostasis as well. These fatty acids can cross the blood brain barrier, accumulating in the hypothalamus and triggering inflammatory signaling cascades.

Other eating Disorders- Serotonin and Dopamine

We know the background on the homeostasis imbalance that occurs for irregular feeding. Then, what are the eating disorders that can occur from different brain imbalances? First of all, eating disorders are serious health conditions that affect both your physical and mental health. These conditions include problems in how you think about food, eating, weight and shape, and in your eating behaviors (Fig. 2). These symptoms can affect your health, your emotions, and your ability to function in important areas of life.

Dopamine and serotonin also have been linked to eating disorders like anorexia. Dopamine is a chemical involved in weight, feeding behaviors, reinforcement, and reward. Since serotonin is involved with satiety and dopamine is associated with the brain’s reward system, altered receptor activity may explain why people with Anorexia have reduced hunger signals and alterations in their food reward system. Dopamine has also been linked with binge eating because it has a role in food cravings, decision making, executive function, and impulsivity, as well as its functional associations with these risk factors.

Fig 2. This figure summarizes the different types of common eating disorders. (4)

Conclusion

Obesity has a negative connotation often associated with it in society. However, it is important to understand the complexity behind what causes obesity. Obesity is not the only eating disorder that impacts so many lives; rather, there are many others as well that are caused by the changes in our brains. The hypothalamus, specifically, is often affected because of its role in homeostasis. The reward system is also crucial in how we eat and see food. The complexity behind eating is great and not an easy obstacle to overcome.

Citations:

  • Jais, A., & Brüning, J. C. (2017). Hypothalamic inflammation in obesity and metabolic disease. Journal of Clinical Investigation, 127(1), 24–32. https://doi.org/10.1172/jci88878
  • Steiger, H. (2004). Eating disorders and the serotonin connection: State, trait and developmental effects. Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, 29(1).
  • The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. (2008, December 3). Body mass index (BMI). Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/science/body-mass-index
  • Ward-Zaragoza, M. (n.d.). Eating Disorder Awareness Week explained: Support, resources, symptoms. Buena Speaks. Retrieved April 29, 2023, from https://buenaspeaks.org/6407/features/eating-disorder-awareness-week-explained-support-resources-symptoms/
  • WHO, W. H. O. (2020, February 21). Obesity. World Health Organization: WHO. https://www.who.int/health-topics/obesity

 

 

 

 

A Bittersweet Goodbye to Concordia – My Capstone Experience

With graduation just a short 8 days away, this is my last assignment for a class ever! I am sitting in a Starbucks sipping on an iced chai tea reminiscing on how much I have grown as a student and as a person over the last four years thanks to Concordia and the liberal arts curriculum.

If I am being honest, I only applied to Concordia because the mascot was a corn cob and I love corn. I later found out that it was a liberal arts college, and being a first-generation student, I had no idea what that meant. I took the time to look up exactly what that meant and I really loved that Concordia was going to give me this well-rounded education that isn’t offered at other universities around Fargo-Moorhead.

When I began taking classes that didn’t fully align with my major, I was a little upset because all I wanted to do was learn about psychology and neuroscience. My mind completely changed the more I took classes such as Spanish, religion, English, philosophy, and many more. These classes showed me a new perspective on life and I will forever be grateful for that.

Neurochemistry was the final class I needed to complete my neuroscience major and to be honest I was scared that I wasn’t going to be good at this class. I thought that I wasn’t going to be smart enough to understand all the signaling pathways, but I was wrong! Neurochemistry turned out to be in my top 3 favorite classes ever taken at Concordia. The structure of this class has been life changing. Being able to read articles about real life things, research something I am interested in each week, and getting to have discussions with my classmates has made this class more beneficial that I could’ve ever imagined.

Concordia College has five goals for liberal arts learning and I truly believe I have met every single one of these goals throughout my four years here.

  1. Instill a Love for Learning:
    • I have always loved school but making the choice to go to college and commit to another four years of learning is a huge deal. I was excited to continue my education and learn things that I never knew existed, which is what I did in each class I took at Concordia. Learning is a life-long process and I am more than happy to continue learning in any I can whether that be in a classroom or through societal connections in the world around me. I have treated my classes as opportunities to learn and not just assignments and tests that I have to do. I am able to learn new information everyday and use it to understand the world around me.
  2. Develop Foundational Skills and Transferable Intellectual Capacities: 
    • People have always said that the skills you learn in school will be skills you need for the rest of your life, and boy were they right! I have learned how to problem solve, critically think, make decisions, acknowledge other perspectives, assess all kinds of information, and more. Throughout the many classes I have taken, I have learned and used one of more of the skills listed above. These skills are going to follow me into my career and even in my everyday life. Being able to use critical thinking to work through a problem is the skill I value most. I will fully admit I was not a good critical thinker until I came here and was constantly challenged (in a good way) by my professors to work through problems and use all of the knowledge I have and different perspectives to try and solve it, and I will appreciate that forever.
  3. Develop an Understanding of Disciplinary, Interdisciplinary, and Intercultural Perspectives and their Connections:
    • Something that I learned pretty early on was the fact that you can use the things you learn in your major and apply it to almost any other class you take or even just your life. Neuroscience is one of the biggest interdisciplinary majors because of how applicable it is to every aspect of life, which is why I love it so much! Everything I have learned in my neuroscience classes I have been able to use in other classes I take, even Spanish! By being proficient in neuroscience and psychology I am able to expand the things I learn to other areas to help me understand those areas as well, creating a well-rounded education.
  4. Cultivate an Examined Cultural, Ethical, Physical, and Spiritual Self-Understanding:
    • I have learned so much about myself and other people throughout my time here. There are many factors that make someone who they are and I didn’t even pay attention to this until I started taking classes here. Without this well-rounded education, I truly don’t think I would be able to understand myself and others as much as I do right now. I have learned about religion, culture, spirituality, social, and many more factors that make people who they are. This has allowed me to shut down any preconceived notions about people because I do not know everything about someone and how these factors are affecting them on a daily basis.
  5. Encourage Responsible Participation in the World: 
    • BREW! One of the many acronyms used at Concordia. I wish I would’ve kept track of how many times I have said BREW over the past four years because it would definitely be in the triple digits. Once I learned what BREW meant, I saw it applying to my life almost daily! I have loved being able to take what I learn in school and use it to influence the outside world. I love seeing my school world and my outside world collide – it makes me light up with joy. I love learning and I love sharing what I learn with everyone! I love introducing people to new ideas and new perspectives of thinking.

Over the past four months, neurochemistry has allowed me the space to think about all of these goals. I have hit all of them in my four years at Concordia, but also in the last four months taking this class. Dr. Mach provides a great environment for learning and for thinking about things that aren’t found in a textbook. This class has  made me learn in new ways, such as trying to understand a complex disease, trying to figure out the connections between the topics we talk about and the outside world, and so many more ways that I can’t even explain them. My critical thinking has grown exponentially the past four months and that is 100% because of this class and the way it is structured. This skill and many more will forever follow me.

Concordia College has been my home away from home for the past four years and it is time to say see you later. I will forever be grateful for the experiences that were  offered to me, the friends I made, the professors who believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself, and the turkeys for making me smile everyday.

Soli Deo Gloria

Olivia Pederson, Class of 2023.

 

 

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