Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that facilitate communication between neurons. Imbalances in their levels can contribute to various neurological and psychological conditions. Below is an overview of key neurotransmitters and conditions linked to their dysregulation.
Function: Regulates mood, appetite, sleep, and cognitive processing.
Function: Controls reward, motivation, movement, and emotional responses.
Function: Modulates alertness, arousal, and the “fight-or-flight” response.
Function: Primary inhibitory neurotransmitter; reduces neuronal excitability.
Function: Primary excitatory neurotransmitter; involved in learning and memory.
Function: Regulates muscle activation, memory, and attention.
Function: Natural painkillers; promote pleasure and stress relief.
Function: Regulates wakefulness, immune response, and allergic reactions.
Neurotransmitter | Low Levels Associated With | High Levels Associated With |
——————- | ————————————- | ————————————— |
Serotonin | Depression, OCD, insomnia | Serotonin syndrome, mania |
Dopamine | Parkinson’s, depression, ADHD | Schizophrenia, addiction |
Norepinephrine | Depression, fatigue | Anxiety, hypertension |
GABA | Anxiety, epilepsy | Sedation, respiratory depression |
Glutamate | Cognitive impairment (rare) | Neurodegeneration, excitotoxicity |
Acetylcholine | Alzheimer’s, myasthenia gravis | Poisoning, muscle spasms |
Endorphins | Chronic pain, depression | Euphoria, exercise-induced highs |
Histamine | Sedation, narcolepsy | Allergies, insomnia |
Neurotransmitters are primarily known for their role in neuronal communication within the central nervous system (CNS). However, when they are released into the bloodstream or act outside the blood-brain barrier, they can function as hormones, influencing various physiological processes throughout the body.
Norepinephrine:
Dopamine:
Serotonin:
Acetylcholine:
Histamine:
Glutamate and GABA:
Neurotransmitter | CNS Role (Neurotransmitter) | Peripheral Role (Hormone) |
——————- | —————————– | —————————————– |
Norepinephrine | Attention, arousal | Fight-or-flight response |
Dopamine | Reward, movement | Kidney function, blood pressure |
Serotonin | Mood, sleep | Gut motility, blood flow |
Acetylcholine | Memory, learning | Heart rate, digestion, muscle control |
Histamine | Wakefulness, appetite | Immune response, inflammation |