The poor functioning of receptors for hypocretin in the hypothalamus plays a central role in the symptoms of
A) sleep paralysis.
B) sleep debt.
C) narcolepsy.
D) REM behavior disorder.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden sleep attacks, and cataplexy. The cause of narcolepsy is the destruction of neurons that produce hypocretin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating wakefulness and sleep. The poor functioning of receptors for hypocretin in the hypothalamus plays a central role in the symptoms of narcolepsy. Sleep paralysis and REM behavior disorder can be symptoms of narcolepsy, but they are not caused by the poor functioning of hypocretin receptors. Sleep debt is a result of cumulative sleep deprivation and is not directly related to hypocretin receptors.

The Poor Functioning of Receptors for Hypocretin in the Hypothalamus