Function of neurotransmitter
the same transmitter can elicit postsynaptic excitation or inhibition
Glutamate
the great majority of fast excitatory synapses in the brain and spinal cord
"modifiable", i.e. capable of increasing or decreasing in strength
excessive glutamate release can overstimulate the brain and lead to
excitotoxicity causing cell death resulting in seizures or strokes
GABA
the great majority of fast inhibitory synapses in virtually every part of the brain
- many sedative/tranquilizing drugs act by enhancing the effects of GABA
Acetylcholine
activates skeletal muscles in the somatic nervous system either excite or inhibit internal organs in the autonomic system
Dopamine
- regulation of motor behavior, pleasures related to motivation and also emotional arousal.
critical role in the reward system
Parkinson's disease : low levels of dopamine
Schizophrenia people : high levels of dopamine
Serotonin
Most is produced by and found in the intestine (approximately 90%)
the remainder in central nervous system neurons
- regulate appetite, sleep, memory and learning, temperature, mood, behaviour, muscle contraction, and function of the cardiovascular system and endocrine system
Norepinephrine
- which focuses on the central nervous system, based on patients sleep patterns, focus and alertness.
Epinephrine
plays a role in sleep
to become and stay alert
the fight-or-flight response
Histamine
works with the central nervous system
specifically the hypothalamus (tuberomammillary nucleus) and CNS mast cells