Neurotransmitters are endogenous chemical messengers that transmit signals across a chemical synapse, from one neuron to another target cell, which can be another neuron, muscle cell, or gland cell. These molecules are essential for regulating all aspects of central nervous system function, including mood, sleep, cognition, and the crucial control of the endocrine system. The balance of key neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA is intricately linked to hormonal equilibrium and overall mental wellness.
Origin
The concept of chemical transmission at the synapse was established in the early 20th century, fundamentally shifting the understanding of nerve communication from purely electrical to a combination of electrical and chemical signaling. The term is a compound of neuro (nerve) and transmitter (one that sends a signal).
Mechanism
A neurotransmitter is synthesized in the presynaptic neuron and stored in vesicles; when an action potential arrives, it triggers the release of the neurotransmitter into the synaptic cleft. The molecule then diffuses across the cleft and binds to specific receptors on the postsynaptic cell membrane, eliciting an excitatory or inhibitory response. This process is highly modulated by circulating hormones, which can alter the synthesis, receptor density, or reuptake of neurotransmitters, demonstrating a reciprocal relationship between the endocrine and nervous systems.
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