This document discusses neurotransmitters and their functions in the nervous system. It describes how neurons transmit electrochemical messages via neurotransmitters that are released into synapses. The main types of neurotransmitters are described as being either excitatory or inhibitory, with examples given of each. Specific neurotransmitters are then discussed in more detail, including GABA, glutamate, serotonin, and dopamine. The role of dopamine in Parkinson's disease is explained, with Parkinson's being a neurodegenerative disease caused by the decreased production of dopamine in the substantia nigra region of the brain. Motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's are also summarized.

1. Neurotrans
mitters

2. A neuron is an
individualised cell
that transmits
electrochemical
messages to, from
and within the
nervous system.
2
RECAP

3. NEUROTRANSMITTERS
3
Neurotransmitters – chemical
messengers released from the
pre-synaptic neurons terminal
buttons into the synapse
Bind to receptor sites on post
synaptic neuron
Effect: Influence and contribute to
motor movement, mental
processes such as problem
solving and emotional
experiences

4. TYPES OF
NEUROTRANSMITTERS
Excitatory – make post
synaptic neuron more
likely to fire an action
potential
Inhibitory – make the
post synaptic neuron
less likely to fire an
action potential / stop
an action potential

5. GAMMA-AMINO BUTYRIC
ACID (GABA)
GABA is the primary inhibitory
neurotransmitter in the human
nervous system.
Effect: Makes post-synaptic
neuron less likely to fire (stops
/ slows down neural
transmission)
Effects: calming and slowing
down of nervous system e.g.
slower movement / mental
processes

6. GLUTAMATE
The primary excitatory
neurotransmitter in the human
nervous system
Effect: Makes the post synaptic
neuron more likely to fire an
action potential / continues
neural transmission
Effect: faster movement / faster
thinking / mental processes

7. SEROTONIN
An inhibitory neurotransmitter that
contributes to wellbeing and
happiness
Effect: contributes to a positive
mood, happiness and relaxed
nature
Exercise and certain foods such as
chicken, eggs, cheese, fish and
peanuts and increase serotonin
levels in the brain and /or improve
it’s functioning

8. Dopamine - our main “focus”
neurotransmitter that also
regulates our pleasure/reward
c.ircuits, memory, and motor
control (physical movement and
coordination).
It acts as either an excitatory or
inhibitory neurotransmitter,
depending on
the dopamine receptor it binds
to
ROLE OF DOPAMINE AND
PARKINSON'S DISEASE

9. PARKINSON’s DISEASE
◼Neurodegenerative disease (originates in the
brain and characterised by progressive
(worsening over time) destruction of neurons
in the brain.
◼Parkinson's disease originates in a structure
called the substantia-nigra (mid-brain). The
neurons in this region release Dopamine
◼Dopamine continues to decrease (as more
neurons die) – therefore other areas (Motor
Cortex – you will learn about this later) in the
brain receive slower/fewer and/or irregular
messages about motor movement

10. PARKINSON’s DISEASE
SYMPTOMS
Key motor symptoms:
Tremor of hands / arms / legs
Muscle Rigidity (stiff and sharp movements)
Slowness of voluntary movement
(Bradykinesia)
Postural instability/balance problems/Gait
(walking) disturbances
Non motor symptoms:
Decrease/loss of smell
Fatigue
Mental health problems including anxiety and
depression
Symptoms worsen over time

11. Watch this
YouTube
video about
Parkinson's
disease
featuring
Michael J
Fox
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqEwPqUO1Bw

12. Application
Learning activity 3.10 (Questions 1 – 5 only)
Neurotransmitter research task (worksheet provided
by your teacher) Choose one from the following:
- Serotonin
- Dopamine
- Melatonin
- GABA
- Glutamate
- Other… check with your teacher