Researchers hypothesized that cocaine is pharmacologically active in primate fetal brain when pregnant primates are administered
cocaine at doses typically used by human drug users. What experimental observation best supports this hypothesis? A. Glucose metabolism in the fetal brain increased
B. Imaging studies showed that cocaine entered the fetal circulation
C. The fetus had an increase in tolerance to pain
D. Imaging studies showed internalization of dopamine receptors
Option A, Glucose metabolism in the fetal brain increased
Explanation:
Usage of cocaine during pregnancy is prohibited. However, in case if cocaine is taken it disrupts the metabolism as it increases brain glucose metabolism to the level of an adult human being. Since glucose metabolism in brain is a sensitive process, any disruption in it can lead to unaccounted effects such as dysfunctional circulation, and pharmacological effect. Cocaine increases the dopamine by blocking the dopamine transporters thereby increasing the Vmax. Since the brain of a child has all kind of neurochemical components, cocaine intakes by a pregnant woman produces reinforcing effects in brain of fetus and also make it pharmacologically active
