Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
When blood flow and oxygen are interrupted, how long does it typically take for brain cells to begin to die?
A
After 30 seconds
B
After 20 minutes
C
Within 1 hour
D
Within 4-6 minutes
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the importance of oxygen and blood flow to brain cells: Brain cells require a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients, delivered via blood flow, to function properly. Without these, they cannot produce energy efficiently and begin to die.
Learn about the time sensitivity of brain cells: Brain cells are highly sensitive to oxygen deprivation. Unlike other tissues, they cannot store oxygen or glucose, making them vulnerable to damage within minutes of interrupted blood flow.
Review the physiological response to oxygen deprivation: When blood flow and oxygen are interrupted, brain cells switch to anaerobic metabolism, which is less efficient and produces harmful byproducts. This leads to cell damage and eventual cell death.
Understand the timeline of brain cell death: Research shows that brain cells begin to die within 4-6 minutes of oxygen deprivation. This is why immediate medical intervention is critical in cases of stroke or cardiac arrest.
Connect the concept to real-world implications: The rapid onset of brain cell death highlights the importance of emergency response systems, such as CPR and defibrillation, to restore blood flow and oxygen as quickly as possible.