MOUSE PARTY: Drugs and Neurotransmitters
Use the Mouse Party interactive (http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/addiction/mouse/) from
the University of Utah Genetic Science Learning Center to explore effects of each of the drugs listed
below. Then, complete the table with this information:
•
Identify which neurotransmitter is affected by the drug.
•
Explain how the drug alters activity at the synapse.
•
Identify the drug as an agonist/antagonist for that
particular neurotransmitter.
DRUG
AGONIST
(strengthens
Which specific
neurotransmitter)
HOW DOES THE DRUG ALTER
NEUROTRANSMITTER(S)
ACTIVITY AT THE SYNAPSE? What OR ANTAGONIST
does it act upon?
(hinders
does it do to affect the
(Dopamine, Serotonin,
neurotransmitter)
neurotransmitter?
GABA, Endorphins, etc)
Alcohol
Cocaine
Methamphetamine
LSD
Marijuana
Ecstasy
Heroin
Genetic Science Learning Center. (2013, August 30) Mouse Party. Retrieved October 31, 2023, from
https://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/addiction/mouse/
From American Psychological Association
Teachers of Psychology in Secondary Schools
William Jenkins, PhD.
Mercer University