Q1. Botox causes a decrease in neurotransmitter release while alhpa-latrotoxin causes an increase in neurotransmitter release. Could alpha-latrotoxin be used to repair the effects of Botox, essentially restoring a synapse to normal functioning? Provide a mechanistic explanation.
Q2. A cell has 10 microM (micro-Molar) Ca2+ inside and 2 microM Ca2+ outside its terminal bouton. Threshold for voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in this bouton is -20 mV. What is the Ca2+ equilibrium potential? Assuming that release mechanisms are similar to those in other neurons, will this axon be able to release neurotransmitter? Why or why not?