Chapter 1, Problem 1RE

Summary Introduction

To determine: The concept of lipid bilayer in the affect of alcohol on motor and behavioural function.

Introduction: Alcohol or ethanol acts as a depressant. It slows down several metabolic processes in the body and along with the functioning of the brain. Alcohol gives a feeling of elation or happiness, however, it can also provoke the feeling of anger and depression. The consumption of alcohol has a negative influence on balance, coordination and even judgement.

Explanation of Solution

The cell membrane is composed of phospholipids bilayer that has two layers of phospholipid and has protein embedded into the membrane. The proteins are of two types, extrinsic and intrinsic proteins. The phospholipid composition of the membrane is amphipathic in nature with polar (hydrophilic) heads and non-polar (hydrophobic) tails.

These molecules allow the direct passage of molecules that are hydrophobic like steroid derivatives. The lipid bilayer allows the movment of alcohol through the plasma membrane and therefore alcohol can cross the blood brain barrier and enter the blood composition of the brain. alcohol functions to suppress the motor function and inhibitions.

Acute alcohol significantly increases focal cortical dysplasia inside thalamus and impairs cognitive and motor functions. It also results in slurred speech, dulling of fine motor skills and compromises balance. The effects are because of the action of alcohol on central nervous syste that slows the rate of message delivery from the brain to the rest of the body. The easily accessible entry of alcohol due to lipophilic nature results in the significant effect on motor and behavioural functions.