Neurotransmitters are essential molecules for the functioning of the human body.
Different types of neurotransmitters serve many vitally important functions. Below are the main molecules known as neurotransmitters, which act differently in multiple parts of the body.
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Top 10 Types of Neurotransmitters (and Their Functions)
Neurotransmitters are endogenous molecules . This means that they are generated by the body itself. They are also characterized in that their action occurs in the synaptic space, the space between the neuron and the receptor cell.
All types of neurotransmitters have the function of inhibiting or exciting the postsynaptic cell. In this way, the operation of the latter will be enhanced or diminished. The most important ones and their ways of acting in the body are explained below.
1. Adrenaline
Adrenaline or epinephrine is a neurotransmitter that in turn has hormonal functions . This substance is what is secreted by the body when some kind of threat is perceived, either physically or psychologically. This molecule activates the physiological processes necessary to put the body on alert.
This means it activates the body, dilating the pupils and blood vessels, mobilizing glycogen stores, increasing breathing and heart rate, and slowing down digestion.
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2. Dopamine
Dopamine is a very present neurotransmitter in the brain . It is found in large quantities in the basal ganglia and is released by the hypothalamus. Its main functions are to inhibit the release of prolactin, control motor skills, sleep, reward and pleasure mechanisms, and regulate mood.
It also has functions at the level of the peripheral nervous system. Dopamine can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, promotes intestinal motility, and reduces lymphocyte activity and insulin secretion.
3. Glutamate
Glutamate is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system , and is used by the vast majority of synapses. It also participates in learning processes such as data storage.
Everything seems to indicate that it is involved in different neurodegenerative diseases. These include Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
4. Norepinephrine
Norepinephrine or norepinephrine is concentrated primarily in the central nervous system . Its main function is to prepare the brain and the body for action, having an exciting effect.
It favors the brain processes of arousal, vigilance, concentration and memory. On the other hand, it increases heart rate, muscle blood flow, and blood pressure, stimulates glucose release, reduces blood flow, and promotes bladder and bowel emptying.
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5. GABA
GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system . It is also found in the pancreas and the adrenal medulla, and due to its properties it achieves sedative and calming effects. It is a neurotransmitter that also has an effect on the olfactory bulb, the retina and the cerebellum.
Low levels of this neurotransmitter have been linked to depression, difficulty sleeping, and anxiety disorders. This neurotransmitter has been shown to control fear and anxiety, making it an important molecule for well-being.
6. Acetylcholine
Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter with excitatory functions in muscles . Its work takes place in the neuromuscular junctions, being the agent that promotes the contraction of muscle cells.
It also has action on the organs controlled by the autonomic nervous system, having both excitatory and inhibitory action. In addition, this neurotransmitter participates in the REM sleep phase, the formation of memories, learning, attention and the perception of pain.
7. Serotonin
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure . It is produced mainly in the intestine, but also partially in the brain. It is a molecule responsible for regulating appetite, sleep, memory and learning processes, mood and different aspects of behavior.
In addition, it participates in the regulation of body temperature, muscle contraction, some functions of the cardiovascular system and some functions of the endocrine system.
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8. Histamine
Histamine is a substance that mediates inflammatory processes . This neurotransmitter is present in different brain regions such as the hippocampus and the hypothalamus, and allows rapid neurotransmission through the histaminergic neurons that pass through the spinal cord.
Histamine generates inflammation and controls smooth muscle vessels and exocrine glands. Antihistamine medications help fight inflammation, but since histamine is also a regulator of sleep-wake cycles, these medications can cause drowsiness.
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9. ATP and degradation products
ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and its breakdown products act as neurotransmitters at some synapses in the body. These derivatives are purines such as adenine and guanine, and are found between neurons as well as in cardiac muscles.
There are nerve endings with a large amount of ATP, although this substance is essential for obtaining cellular energy. It is produced during cellular respiration and is consumed by many enzymes.
10. Glycine
This is one of the amino acids that can act as neurotransmitters . Its main function is to inhibit the central nervous system, and it has a direct effect on the spinal cord, brain stem and retina.
On the other hand, glycine is a very important amino acid in the generation of collagen for various organs of the body. Its highest concentration is found in connective tissue, although it is also very important for the skin and bones.
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Bibliographic references
- Snyder, S.H. y Innis, R.B. (1979). Peptide neurotransmitters. Annu. Rev. Biochem. 48, 755–782.
- Stolerman, I.P. (2010). Encyclopedia of Psychopharmacology. Londres (RU): Springer.
- Whishaw, B.K. y Ian, Q. (2014). An introduction to brain and behavior (4th ed.). Nueva York: Worth Publishers.
To the classic question “what do you do?” I always answer “basically I am a psychologist”. In fact, my academic training has revolved around the psychology of development, education and community, a field of study influenced my volunteer activities, as well as my first work experiences in personal services.