A short description of neurotransmitters and their use.

1. Neurotransmitters An introduction

2. Definition of Neurotransmitters Chemicals located and released in the brain which allows communication from nerve cell to nerve cell.

3. Synapses There is a space between the two neurons called a synapse. It is in this space that the neurotransmitters gather, ultimately to the receptors on the other neuron.

4. Some famous neurotransmitters Acetylcholine: Excitatory neurotransmitter Triggers muscle contraction & release of some hormones Involved in wakefulness, attentiveness, anger, aggression, sexuality Dopamine Inhibitory transmitter Involved in controlling movement & posture Modulates mood Involved in positive reinforcement & dependency

5. More famous transmitters GABA Inhibitory neurotransmitters Contributes to motor control, vision and cortical function Regulates anxiety Glutamate Excitatory neurotransmitter Associated with learning and memory

6. And more neurotransmitters Norepinephrine Important for attentiveness, emotions, sleeping, dreaming & learning Also causes blood vessels to contract and HR to increase Plays role in mood disorders Serotonin Contributes to functions such as body temperature regulation, sleep, mood, appetite and pain.

7. Scientists have identified over 60 different molecules that meet criteria to be considered neurotransmitters.