What are the major neurotransmitters in the CNS?
Written by Elijah Dave M. Cordova
Reviewed by Dr. Reuben J C. Los Baños, Ph.D.
Neurotransmitters allow brain cells to communicate with each other. They enable the transfer of information across gaps among neurons. Among the major neurotransmitters in the CNS are acetylcholine and catecholamines. Serotonin and GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid) complete the list.
Before we go into each of them, let us first classify neurotransmitters.
- Excitatory. They cause neuron firing of an action potential to a receiving neuron.
- Inhibitory. It is the opposite of excitatory action. It inhibits the firing of action potentials across synapses.
- Neurohormones. Neurons synthesize and secrete them into the bloodstream. Oxytocin and vasopressin are examples.
- Neuromodulators. They influence other neurotransmitters and affect several neurons at once.
Acetylcholine (Ach) is a neuromodulator that affects your attention and memory. It also impacts how you learn things through integration. Ach cells originate in your brainstem and midbrain. They then travel to every area of the CNS through synapses.
In the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS), Ach is an excitatory neurotransmitter. Neuromuscular junctions often use Ach to send signals between your nerves and muscles. For example, acetylcholine signals parasympathetic smooth muscle movement.
Choline acetyltransferase catalyzes the production of acetylcholine. It separates the acetyl part of acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA). It then joins this acetyl part to choline to form the product.
Catecholamines are neurohormones crucial to maintaining homeostasis in your body. Your adrenal glands on top of your kidneys produce them. Dopamine is a catecholamine. So, too, are norepinephrine (NE) (i.e., noradrenaline (NA)) and epinephrine (adrenaline) catecholamines.
Dopamine is a neuromodulator across many brain regions. One of its main functions is in the prediction and learning of rewards. Axons of your midbrain house dopamine.
L-amino acid decarboxylase (i.e., DOPA decarboxylase) synthesizes dopamine from L-Dopa. It is a precursor chemical. This same enzyme also facilitates the synthesis of histamine and serotonin, another neurotransmitter.
Dopamine β-hydroxylase synthesizes noradrenaline from dopamine. Its cells originate from your brainstem. Its main function is regulating the sympathetic nervous system. It helps regulate your body systems based on specific situations.
You can think of it as what regulates your arousal to specific situations. In times of stress, norepinephrine increases your alertness or wakefulness. It is so that you can respond in a proper manner and ensure your survival.
Epinephrine is the hormonal equal to norepinephrine. They work together to form your “fight or flight” response which you need to survive.
During stress, norepinephrine constricts your blood vessels to raise your blood pressure. Meanwhile, epinephrine forces your heart to contract with much greater strength. Its actions increase blood pressure and cardiac output.
Your body releases noradrenaline to your blood circulation at a low dose. Your body releases adrenaline in stressful moments alone.
Serotonin uses the amino acid L-tryptophan in its synthesis. Hence, it is also known as 5- hydroxytryptamine (5-HT). Most of it is in the raphe nucleus of your brain stem. Serotonin also cannot pass through your blood-brain barrier. It performs its functions in your brain alone.
Serotonin, like dopamine, is a neuromodulator. Unlike adrenaline and noradrenaline, it does not have a specific function. Instead, it affects many brain regions and body systems in consequence. Serotonin affects your mood, sleep, circadian rhythms, and body temperature, among others.
GABA is a derivative of glutamate (glutamic acid), a non-essential amino acid. It is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter of your brain. This means it inhibits the transmission of messages along neural pathways. It makes sure that your brain does not send random messages.
The enzyme glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) synthesizes GABA from glutamic acid. It demands cofactor pyridoxal phosphate (derived from Vitamin B6) in its synthesis. As GABA increases in your brain, it inhibits the action of GAD. With this, it manages its own synthesis.
GABA-A and GABA-B are its two receptors. They act on both receiving and transmitting targets. They do this to fine-tune the responses of your CNS. GABA cells work through lateral inhibition. This mechanism ensures the highlighting of important information in your brain.
In essence, GABA blocks noise or irrelevant message transmission. GABA also promotes sleep but inhibits brain regions that promote awakening. Abnormalities in GABA contribute to anxiety disorders which unnecessary brain activity often causes.
What triggers neurotransmitter release?
You have now come to appreciate the role of neurotransmitters in your body. Now, we ask how they travel across synapses. The opening of voltage-gated calcium channels triggers the release of neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters travel to your synapses.
Your brain cells have dendrites that receive information and axons that conduct information. A myelin sheath can protect your axons and speed up its message transmission. Degradation of this myelin sheath leads to multiple sclerosis. It leads to a lack of muscle control.
Nerve cells also have the soma or cell body. It contains all things your nerve cell needs. The information your dendrites receive may belong from the environment or other neurons. Most neurons have one axon and many dendrites. These are multipolar neurons.
Each axon terminates on the next neuron at a synapse. These synapses are less than a millionth of an inch apart. A synapse is a specialized structure for transferring information.
The tip of each axon is the axon terminal. This part of your neuron contains synaptic vesicles that house neurotransmitters. Meanwhile, the postsynaptic membrane of the target cell has receptors for those neurotransmitters.
Your axon terminal also contains voltage-gated calcium channels. An action potential travels from your dendrites to your axons. When an action potential reaches your axon terminal, it changes its membrane potential. This action potential also opens these voltage-gated calcium channels.
Now, calcium flows into your axon terminal through diffusion. This event increases the concentration of calcium in your axon terminal. This calcium causes the fusing of vesicle and axon terminal membrane proteins.
This fusion allows your neurotransmitters to communicate outside the neuron through the synapse. These neurotransmitters diffuse into the synapse and bind to target cell receptors. They fit the receptors like a key to a lock.
Three things affect this process.
The frequency of action potentials fired down your axon opens more calcium channels. More calcium would flow in the axon terminal. More synaptic vesicles would fuse with the membrane of your axons. Hence, more neurotransmitters would travel into the synapse.
The duration of action potentials fired down your axon means longer neurotransmitter release.
Third, the blockage of target cell receptors causes failure of message transmission. It can also show the presence of a disease. Myasthenia gravis is muscle weakness due to circulating antibodies that block acetylcholine receptors.
When the train of action potentials stops firing, your calcium channels will close. Calcium stops flowing into your axon. The fusion between your vesicles and axon membrane stops. Hence, there are no more neurotransmitters that travel down your synapses.
Where can you find vesicles of neurotransmitters?
Neurotransmitter vesicles are also known as synaptic vesicles. These vessels store neurotransmitters for transport across synapses. They are in the neuron region known as the axon hillock or axon terminal. This region is the release zone.
Synaptic vesicles contribute a great deal toward the transmission of neurotransmitters across neurons. They aid in facilitating the communication between the CNS and the rest of your body.
When an action potential travels down your axon terminal, it generates a set of reactions. This results in the release of neurotransmitters kept by your synaptic vesicles. These neurotransmitters travel through synapses to communicate with target cells.
Removal of neurotransmitters from the synapse entails either of the following:
- Reuptake.
Here, uptake pumps take your neurotransmitters from the synapse. Then, your axon terminal membrane would close off. An example of this would be serotonin uptake pumps. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) induce serotonin buildup in your body.
- Deactivating Enzymes.
These enzymes break down your neurotransmitters. An example of this would be acetylcholinesterase (AchE). It breaks down acetylcholine in your synapses. Inhibition of its action or production builds up acetylcholine in your synapse.
How does neurotransmission affect human behavior?
Everything psychological is biological. Our biological condition affects our ideas, impulses, and moods. Our neurons communicate with neurotransmitters. This communication leads to motion and emotion. They make us move and feel.
Endorphins make you feel good. They are like opium in that they associate with the control of pain and pleasure. Your systems would flood with endorphins after exercising or eating delicious food. Falling in love can make you feel good too.
Norepinephrine controls alertness and arousal as discussed in a previous section.
Glutamate, from which we derive GABA, is also a neurotransmitter. It helps manage memory. Having too much glutamate in your CNS could cause migraines or seizures. Hence, some people sensitive to glutamate avoid monosodium glutamate (MSG). It is an ingredient you can find in ramen.
Serotonin affects your feelings of hunger, your mood, and your sleep. We link depression to low amounts of serotonin. Some antidepressants like SSRIs treat depression by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.
Acetylcholine affects learning, memory, and muscle action. Deterioration of acetylcholine-producing neurons causes Alzheimer’s. It is a progressive neurological degradation due to brain degeneration.
Dopamine affects attention, emotion, and learning. It also impacts movement and pleasure. An excess of dopamine causes schizophrenia. It is a chronic psychiatric illness where you disassociate behavior, emotion, and thought. Excess dopamine also causes other addictive or impulsive behaviors.
Acetylcholine and dopamine neurotransmitters can be excitatory or inhibitory. It depends on the type of receptors they encounter.
Like neurotransmitters, hormones act on the brain. Some hormones are even identical to certain neurotransmitters. Hormones also affect our arousal, mood, and circadian rhythms. Besides this, they can impact physical growth and aid in sexual reproduction. They can also control your metabolism.
Neurotransmission occurs at high speeds. Hormones take their time and deliver slow communications through glands. Hence, hormones linger. This explains why it takes time to calm down after having a bout of severe stress or trauma.
Adrenaline works with noradrenaline for the fight or flight response.
Your endocrine and nervous systems work together to affect your behavior.
What neurotransmitter causes happiness?
Does happiness make you healthy? Does being healthy make you happy? We may go different ways here but we can agree that both are important. Hence, we now concern ourselves with what neurotransmitter causes happiness.
Seven neurotransmitters provide a general feeling of well-being. Adrenaline, dopamine and endocannabinoids are among them. So, too, do endorphin, GABA, oxytocin, and serotonin belong.
Adrenaline elicits an exhilarating feeling. It also creates a surge in energy. It makes you feel alive.
Dopamine drives behaviors driven by rewards and seeking pleasure. Several addictive drugs act on the dopamine system. These drugs block dopamine reuptake, leaving it in your synapses longer.
Endocannabinoids that include anandamide have similar effects to marijuana. They prevent anxiety and burnout. They contribute to the runner’s high you would get after sustained running.
Endorphins resemble opiates. They are painkillers in essence.
GABA creates a sense of calmness by inhibiting the firing of neurons. Benzodiazepines are anti-anxiety medications that work by increasing GABA.
Oxytocin is a neurohormone linked to feelings of intimacy and affection. Couples distant from each other for a long time have decreased oxytocin levels.
Serotonin affects your appetite, mood, social interaction, and performance. High serotonin levels mean increased self-esteem and feelings of worthiness.
Where is GABA neurotransmitter produced?
GABA is the brain’s main inhibitory neurotransmitter. It is also a major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the spinal cord. Glutamate decarboxylase uses Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) to synthesize GABA from glutamate. GABA production happens in the brain and β-cells of the pancreas.
Several diseases exhibit GABA deficiencies:
- Dystonia and spasticity.
Dystonia is involuntary muscle contraction. It causes repetitive and twisting motions. Spasticity refers to stiff muscles. A deficiency in GABA signaling can cause these two diseases.
- Hepatic encephalopathy.
It refers to impaired brain function due to advanced liver disease. Elevated ammonia levels can bind to a GABA complex and cause this disease.
- Huntington’s disease.
It is an inherited disease the causes the progressive degeneration of brain neurons. A lack of GABA exhibits this disease.
- Pyridoxine deficiency.
It is when your body does not have Vitamin B6 to produce GABA. Frequent seizures during infancy are common.
REFERENCES
Bergland, C. (2012). The Neurochemicals of Happiness. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-athletes-way/201211/the-neurochemicals- happiness
Hank. (2014). The Chemical Mind: Crash Course Psychology #3 [YouTube Video]. In YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4N-7AlzK7s
Jensen, M. B. (2014). Neurotransmitter release | Nervous system physiology | NCLEX-RN | Khan Academy [YouTube Video]. In YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ac- Npt3vgCE
Pastore, R. (2020, May 7). What are the Main Neurotransmitters? PowerOnPowerOff. https://poweronpoweroff.com/blogs/guide/what-are-the-main-neurotransmitters
This article by Mr. Elijah Cordova has taught me that CNS goes beyond the mechanics of neurotransmitter function to explore their profound impact on our daily lives. In short, the CNS is the maestro of the human orchestra. Without it, none of our bodily functions, thoughts, or behaviors would be possible. Damage to the CNS can have devastating consequences, affecting movement, speech, memory, and even consciousness. In this article, I have discovered how these chemical messengers orchestrate our moods, memories, and even how we learn and perceive pain. The article reveals that imbalances in specific neurotransmitters can contribute to conditions like depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. Finally, the article delves into the fascinating world of happiness, explaining how the interplay of various neurotransmitters creates feelings of joy, reward, and contentment.
Kate M. Gimarangan
MT30 – CC (lec)
Learning | What are the major neurotransmitters in the CNS?
Based on the article provided abovementioned, everything psychological is biological. Our ways of thinking and how we react with our external environment requires neuron to communicate with other neurotransmitters in order to respond to certain stimuli. Somehow, a chemical messenger of your brain called serotonin can be associated with your mood, sleep as well as appetite. For instance, you after an eight hour of sleep you felt that your body has been fully recharged by the aid of serotonin regulating in your sleep.
Shenikah E. Tulabing
MT 30 – CC
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This article gave enough analysis of neurotransmitters and how important a part they play in controlling many facets of physiology and behavior in humans. I gained knowledge about important neurotransmitters like GABA, acetylcholine, catecholamines, and serotonin, each of which has a unique action mechanism and role in the peripheral and central nervous systems (PNS and CNS, respectively). My understanding of the complex mechanisms underpinning neuronal communication has increased as a result of learning about the synthesis, release, and removal of neurotransmitters from synapses. The article also discussed the importance of neurotransmitters in regulating behavior, emotion, and physiological reactions in humans, providing insight into their function in illnesses including anxiety, depression, and neurodegenerative diseases. All in all, the post offered insightful information on the intricate relationship between neurotransmitters and human biology.
Catadman, Shekainah Shane M.
MT30 LEC-CC
Acquiring knowledge about neurotransmitters has been an enlightening experience, expanding my comprehension of how brain cells interact and shape our actions. Similar to messengers, neurotransmitters enable signals to be sent between neurons via microscopic gaps. Knowing which ones they are—excitatory, inhibitory, neurohormones, or neuromodulators—helps us understand how they impact our neurological system. For instance, catecholamines like dopamine and norepinephrine assist in controlling mood and arousal, whereas acetylcholine, a neuromodulator, is involved in attention and memory. Understanding the production of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine from L-Dopa or acetylcholine from choline and acetylCoA, uncovers the complex mechanisms behind brain function. Furthermore, the behavioral effects of neurotransmitters, such as the effects of serotonin on mood and sleep, highlight the crucial role these chemicals play in our everyday lives.
The article focuses on neurotransmitters, which Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that enable communication between brain cells. They transfer information across neurons via synapses and can be categorized into four types: excitatory neurotransmitters (trigger the firing of action potential), inhibitory neurotransmitters (prevent the firing of action potentials), neurohormones (secreted into the bloodstream), and neuromodulators (influence other neurotransmitters and affect multiple neurons). The release of neurotransmitters is triggered by the opening of calcium channels in axon terminal, which allow neurotransmitters to cross synapses and bind to receptors on target cells.
This article discusses the exciting area of the brain and how it uses chemical messengers known as neurotransmitters to control many things, including movement, memory, and emotions, as well as behavior. Such a relative separation between excitatory, inhibitory, neurohormones, and neuromodulators conceptualizes different roles of these substances in the neurological system. Neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, dopamine, serotonin and GABA all have independent roles that determine our day to day experiences – learning, muscle movement, reward/emotion, mood/sleep and brain relaxation for instance.
Psychological agendas related to both of them depict complex connections with cognitive processes and group feelings such as wakefulness, fearful, and joyous. The knowledge of these neurotransmitters and how they work and with each other offers a basis for the treatment of neurological-psychiatric disorders; revealing natural chemical pathology for diseases that include major depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer’s. This information provides the necessary background about how the human brain works, and how slight changes in the biochemical processes may impair a person’s mental and physical well-being.
The explanation of neurotransmitters in this essay is excellent, making difficult ideas seem understandable. The relationship between acetylcholine, dopamine, and serotonin is particularly fascinating to me since it relates common emotions like tension and happiness to real brain chemistry. Dopamine’s connection to reward-seeking and addictive behaviors got me to think about how much power these chemicals have over human behavior. It’s amazing how discriminating the brain is about what it lets in, so finding out that serotonin doesn’t cross the blood-brain barrier was also a neat bit of trivia. All in all, it’s an interesting read that has deepened my understanding of how complex and sensitive our brain’s communication system is.
This article does a great job explaining the major neurotransmitters in the central nervous system! I found it really interesting how each neurotransmitter plays such a specific role in brain function, from mood regulation to muscle movement. The explanation of dopamine and its link to reward and motivation really caught my attention. It’s amazing how a small molecule like that can have such a big impact on our behavior and emotions. I also liked how the article touched on serotonin and its role in mood regulation and sleep. It really helped me understand why these chemicals are so important to our mental and physical well-being.
The article was incredibly helpful in providing insight into neurotransmitters and their vital role in the body’s response to stimuli. It emphasized the idea that everything psychological is rooted in biology as it directly impacts our thoughts, impulses, and moods. By highlighting how neurons communicate through neurotransmitters, the article made it clear how this communication drives motion, emotions, sensations, and others.
The article provided a well-structured explanation about the major neurotransmitters in the CNS, not only their types and functions, but also the roles they play in both biological processes and human behavior. It was classified into excitatory, inhibitory, neurohormones, and neuromodulators. It also highlights key neurotransmitters which are acetylcholine, dopamine, serotonin, and GABA.
Additionally, I have learned how each neurotransmitter influences the brain and body, from mood regulation to the fight-or-flight response. I like how the article also effectively links neurotransmitter activity to real-life scenarios like stress responses, making it relatable and practical for readers.
“Everything psychological is biological.” This was a very well-constructed statement, it sums up the essence of how the brain works. Everything that we feel and think is rooted in the processes of the brain. Amazing to think that this implies that even personality and identity formation, a deeply intimate process, has a biological basis.
For years we have thought that our emotions and personal ideas and thoughts were formed from what lies in our hearts, but it was driven by the chemical processes in the brain all along. If we had no neurotransmitters, what would we be? We would be lost, unable to feel, think, or connect with others. The very essence of who we are is dependent on these neurotransmitters that shape our thoughts and emotions. It’s so fascinating to think that chemicals determine who we are.
There are so many moments in our lives that we feel extremely happy, having that exhilarating feeling wherein we sometimes wonder why and how it happens. This article answers all these questions and it clearly explains that seven neurotransmitters of the Cerebral Nervous System cause this extreme happiness. These are adrenaline, dopamine, endocannabinoids, endorphin, GABA, oxytocin, and serotonin. All these create a surge in energy that makes us feel alive and happy. With this, we have now come to appreciate more the importance of neurotransmitters in our body because not only do they allow the brain cells to communicate and transfer information but they also provide a general feeling of well-being that makes us feel good. This characteristic of the neurotransmitters is what captured my attention after reading the article.
There are so many moments in our lives that we feel extremely happy, having that exhilarating feeling wherein we sometimes wonder why and how it happens. This article answers all these questions and it clearly explains that seven neurotransmitters of the Central Nervous System cause this extreme happiness. These are adrenaline, dopamine, endocannabinoids, endorphin, GABA, oxytocin, and serotonin. All these create a surge in energy that makes us feel alive and happy. With this, we have now come to appreciate more the importance of neurotransmitters in our body because not only do they allow the brain cells to communicate and transfer information but they also provide a general feeling of well-being that makes us feel good. This characteristic of the neurotransmitters is what captured my attention after reading the article.
This article has much helpful information and explains many complex terms. It covers significant neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, serotonin, and GABA. It also discusses how these chemicals help brain cells communicate, affect behavior, and play a role in mental health issues like anxiety and depression, which, for me, makes the article very useful.
Neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine indeed play an important role in shaping our emotions, behaviors, and overall mental well-being. It’s fascinating to realize how dopamine drives our pursuit of pleasure and reward, while serotonin influences our mood and social interactions, which emphasizes the delicate balance our brain requires for it to function at its best. The connection between stress and neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and epinephrine shows how our body reacts to danger, but too much of these can lead to anxiety or exhaustion. Ultimately, the article puts into the light that mental health issues such as depression or anxiety are not just about external factors but also about the complex biochemistry of our brains, reminding us of the importance of maintaining that balance.
This article highlights the essential roles of major neurotransmitters in the central nervous system in facilitating communication. It clearly explains how each neurotransmitter—such as dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine—affects mood, cognition, and behavior. These chemical messengers impact mental health and overall brain function. This helps us understand the intricate biochemical processes that shape our thoughts, emotions, and actions.
This article on neurotransmitters in the CNS is fascinating because it explains how these chemical messengers play a pivotal role in brain function, influencing mood, cognition, and movement. The different types, such as dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate, each have specific functions that impact everything from happiness to muscle control. The balance and interaction between these neurotransmitters are crucial for maintaining mental and physical health.
Reflecting on the major neurotransmitters in the CNS, I am amazed by the significant influence these minuscule molecules have on our daily lives. They are vital in regulating the interaction between neurons and various bodily functions. The ability to control everything from mood to stress and pain emphasizes their significance. It’s interesting how a minor imbalance in neurotransmitter levels may lead to severe health conditions like anxiety, depression, and Parkinson’s disease. This insight emphasizes the complex interactions of the central nervous system and the need for further investigation to understand better and treat neurological and psychiatric diseases. Learning about neurotransmitters helps me appreciate the brain’s details and role in molding how we perceive things.
The article amazed me since I learned another piece of information about our CNS or central nervous system. Specifically, the significant neurotransmitters are acetylcholine and catecholamines. Serotonin and GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid). Each neurotransmitter serves a vital role in our brain, functioning in how we think, act, or feel as human beings, and any abnormalities to this kind of neurotransmitter can lead to severe mental health issues. I hope that this article helps a lot of people who are eager to learn about this kind of topic.
Neurotransmitters are chemicals that facilitate communication between neurons and are classified into excitatory, inhibitory, neurohormones, and neuromodulators. Excitatory neurotransmitters stimulate neuron firing, while inhibitory neurotransmitters inhibit it. Neurohormones are secreted into the bloodstream, and neuromodulators influence the activity of other neurotransmitters. Each of these neurotransmitters is essential in maintaining proper body functions and mental health.
Neurotransmitters may not be well-known, but they play an important role in allowing brain cells to communicate with each other and enabling the transfer of information across gaps among neurons. This article also highlights how GABA plays an important role. GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in our brain and ensures that our brain does not send random messages. The synaptic vesicles, or neurotransmitter vesicles, store neurotransmitters for transport across synapses. It is also amazing how this article mentions that neurotransmitters cause happiness or provide a general feeling of well-being.
I often wonder how my brain sends and receives messages that quickly. Thanks to this comprehensive article, I’ve learned that it was just neurotransmitters that continuously worked to transmit signals between neurons or from neurons to other cells. These tiny chemicals can carry messages between brain cells, which just stuns me how, despite their minuscule size, they can control so many aspects of our lives and the very foundation of how we think, feel, and act.
Based on what I’ve understood, this is how neurotransmitters work. When a message reaches the end of a nerve cell, it opens channels that allow calcium to flow in. This causes the neurotransmitters to be released into a tiny gap between nerve cells called the synapse. The neurotransmitters then travel across this gap and attach to the next nerve cell, passing on the message. If something blocks its receptors, like in a disease called myasthenia gravis, the message can’t get through, affecting movement or muscle control.
Besides sending messages to each other, neurotransmitters also have an intricate position in shaping our emotions. The one that makes us feel pleasure and reward, promoting happiness and motivation, is dopamine. While serotonin helps regulate mood and emotional balances, that’s why when we are depressed or in a state of anxiety, this usually indicates that a person is showing low levels of serotonin. On the other hand, Norepinephrine is involved in stress and arousal, affecting our fight-or-flight responses. Then, the oxytocin (love hormone) fosters social bonding and affection. Lastly, GABA works to calm the brain, reducing anxiety and stress.
Hence, neurotransmitters are not just chemicals; they are the spark plugs of our brain, igniting electrical circuits that keep us alive, engaged, and aware. Without these chemicals, life becomes a standstill. The brain would essentially be “offline,” unable to process information or respond to the environment, leading to a total dysfunction in all bodily systems.
I’m fascinated with the concept of neurotransmitters which are chemical messengers that transmit signals between neurons. Key neurotransmitters in the CNS include acetylcholine, dopamine, serotonin, GABA, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters play crucial roles in various brain functions such as mood, memory, and motor control.
Regardless if I am happy, sad, excited, or fearful, the way I experience and express these emotions is deeply influenced by the complex chemical processes occurring within my brain, specifically through the actions of neurotransmitters that regulate my thoughts and reactions. Breaking down neurotransmitters into excitatory, inhibitory, and other categories helps us get a better grip on how these chemicals affect everything from mood regulation to cognitive skills. I really was impressed at how the article links neurotransmitter activity with everyday stuff, like stress and happiness, making info not only informative but something we can all relate to. It’s wild to think about how a chemical messenger in our day-to-day lives would influence our thoughts, feelings, and reactions in ways we usually don’t even notice.
This article opens our eyes to how incredibly complex the communication system in our brains is. It is incredible to think that our thoughts, actions, and even emotions rely on neurotransmitters’ delicate balance and precise functioning. The idea that neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, dopamine, serotonin, and GABA play diverse roles- from enhancing focus and memory to regulating mood and even inhibiting unnecessary brain activity- makes me appreciate just how complex our brains are.
I find the connection between neurotransmitters and our body’s response to them most fascinating. Like the dopamine that helps us anticipate reward, motivating us to act, or norepinephrine and epinephrine that kick in during “fight or flight.” Our brain has a system that helps keep us alert, balanced, and even relaxed when necessary.
The central nervous system (CNS) comprises our brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing sensory information, initiating responses, and coordinating body functions. After reading this article, I realized that these functions won’t happen without the presence of neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are like messengers but in chemical form, which signals between neurons.
It’s amazing to think that these neurotransmitters can influence human behavior. I see them as a culprit for making me feel mood swings (serotonin), getting addicted to sleep sometimes (dopamine), and learning more things (acetylcholine). So everything that I feel can be associated with neurotransmitters that are within our CNS. <3
This article does a great job of breaking down the important neurotransmitters in the brain and explaining their impact on our behavior and emotions. It’s pretty interesting to see how chemicals like dopamine and serotonin play such a big role in things like mood, learning, and even stress. It made me realize just how complex our brain is and how small imbalances can affect our overall well-being. It’s a helpful reminder of how everything in our body is connected and how these tiny molecules really shape our experiences.
Neurotransmitters are like the internet of the brain, constantly transferring messages that shape our thoughts, actions, and emotions. Comparable to Wi-Fi, it enables seamless communication across devices, and neurotransmitters ensure smooth coordination between brain cells. An interruption to the signals in neurotransmitter levels can disrupt mood, memory, or focus, much like a weak internet connection hinders our ability to work or connect. This showcases that even minor disruptions can greatly impact our well-being.
Based on the article, neurotransmitters are special chemicals that help nerve cells in your brain essentially talk to each other. They travel across tiny spaces called synapses to send messages between neurons. There are different types of neurotransmitters, and each one has a different job. For example, acetylcholine helps with memory and learning, while dopamine is involved with pleasure and rewards. Serotonin affects mood, sleep, and how you feel, and GABA is the brain’s “brake,” stopping neurons from sending too many signals. These neurotransmitters help your brain control everything you do, from moving your body to how you feel. When a nerve cell gets a signal, it releases neurotransmitters into the synapse, where they attach to the next cell like a key in a lock. This is how your brain sends messages. Things like how often the nerve cells send signals or any blockages in the communication can affect how well neurotransmitters work. If something goes wrong, it can lead to problems like depression or diseases that affect the brain. I appreciate this article for explaining the causes of a person’s mental and physical well-being— showing that neurotransmitters play a huge role in controlling not just your body, but also your emotions and thoughts, and showing how closely your brain and behavior are connected.
The article written by Elijah Dave M. Cordova it answered the question of what are the major neurotransmitters in the CNS and those are acetylcholine and catecholamines alongside Serotonin and GABA.
A neuromodulator that influences memory and attention is acetylcholine (Ach). It affects how you learn through integration as well. Ach cells start in the midbrain and brainstem. Through synapses, they subsequently reach every part of the central nervous system, while the neurohormones called catecholamines are essential for preserving your body’s balance. They are produced by your adrenal glands, which sit atop your kidneys. One kind of catecholamine is dopamine. Both epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine (NE), often known as noradrenaline (NA), are catecholamines.
Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals between nerve cells. They play a crucial role in various brain functions, including mood, memory, and movement. This amazed me, thinking that I’m currently using these neurotransmitters while writing this comment.
This information deepens my appreciation of how neurotransmitters influence physiological processes and disorders like depression or Parkinson’s disease, enhancing my understanding of neuroscience and its medical applications.
This article really helped me understand neurotransmitters. I always knew they were important for brain function, but reading about the specific roles of each one—like dopamine and reward, or serotonin and mood—made it much clearer. The different classifications of neurotransmitters—excitatory, inhibitory, etc.—were also helpful in understanding how they work together to regulate brain activity.
I especially liked how the article explained the process of neurotransmitter release, step-by-step. It made the whole process of action potentials, calcium channels, and vesicle fusion much less abstract. It was also interesting to learn about the different ways neurotransmitters are removed from the synapse—reuptake and enzymatic degradation—and how those processes are targeted by certain drugs.
The section on how neurotransmission affects behavior was fascinating. It really drove home the point that our thoughts, feelings, and actions are all rooted in our biology. Connecting neurotransmitters to specific mental health conditions, like depression and schizophrenia, was also really insightful. It made the connection between psychology and biology much more tangible.
Overall, the article was well-written and easy to follow, even for someone like me who’s just starting to learn about neuroscience. It successfully combined detailed explanations of complex processes with relatable examples, making it a really valuable resource. I definitely feel more confident in my understanding of neurotransmitters now, and I’m excited to learn more!
The paper describes and discusses in detail neurotransmitter functions and classifications, showing that neurotransmitters play a fundamental role in brain communication and behavior. It simplifies concepts such as excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters, along with the role that neurotransmitter imbalances have in health conditions. This is how discussions about the ways in which neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, serotonin, and GABA, impact mood, learning, and motor control will come alive with insights into biological and psychological effects.
Reading this article made me realize just how amazing our brain and body are, especially how our reactions to the environment stem from the neurotransmitters we have. I learned that neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and GABA are crucial because they’re responsible for everything from our emotions and memories to how we respond to stress. I also learned that endorphins play a significant role in making us feel good.
I realized that balance in our body is essential because too much or too little of these neurotransmitters can lead to serious issues like anxiety, depression, or even diseases such as dystonia and spasticity, hepatic encephalopathy, Huntington’s disease, and pyridoxine deficiency.
This article gave me a deeper appreciation for how gifted we are to have these neurotransmitters, which allow us to feel and appreciate the people and environment around us. Without them, life would be dull, I can’t imagine not being able to feel happiness. This article also reminded me to care for our mental health as much as we care for our physical well-being. We must care both of them.
Neurotransmitters in the central nervous system (CNS) include acetylcholine, catecholamines (dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine), serotonin, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). These chemicals enable communication between neurons and regulate various brain functions. Acetylcholine plays a role in memory and muscle function. Catecholamines are involved in the stress response, alertness, and reward. Dopamine affects learning and pleasure, while norepinephrine regulates stress and alertness, and epinephrine is crucial for fight-or-flight responses. Serotonin influences mood, sleep, and appetite, while GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter, helping control anxiety and promoting sleep.
Neurotransmitters are released when action potentials trigger calcium influx, causing the release of vesicles into the synapse. The neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the target cell, and are then removed by reuptake or enzymes. Abnormalities in neurotransmitter function can lead to conditions like Parkinson’s disease, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders. Additionally, neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine contribute to feelings of happiness and well-being.
The article explained that neurotransmitters are chemicals that help the brain send messages between nerve cells. Some, like glutamate, excite the brain, while others, like GABA, calm it down. I also learned that dopamine and serotonin affect mood, movement, and focus. It made me realize how chemical balance is key for a healthy brain.
The central nervous system (CNS) uses neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine, and GABA to send messages. These chemicals control emotions, sleep, movement, and brain activity. When neurotransmitters are imbalanced, they can affect mood, focus, and behavior.