Neurotransmitteres Flashcards
What physiological processes do neurotransmitters influence
Mood, memory, attention, arousal
What does serotonin do
Serotonin regulates mood
What does dopamine do
Dopamine plays a key role in motivation and reward pathways
CNS functions of Acetylcholine (ACh)
Involved in memory, aids in learning, regulates attention, plays a role in arousal, contributes to reward pathways
PNC functions of Acetylcholine (ACh)
Essential for muscle contraction and regulates autonomic functions (heart rate, digestion, etc)
CNS functions of Dopamine
Regulates mood, involved in reward and pleasure, aids motor control, plays a role in motivation and reinforcement
PNS functions of Dopamine
Influences hormone release and regulates movement and coordination
CNS functions of Serotonin
Affects mood, regulates anxiety and happiness, plays a role in sleep regulation, influences appetite and digestion
PNS functions of Serotonin
Regulates gastrointestinal functions and involved in cardiovascular & immune system functions
CNS functions of Norepinephrine/Epinephrine
Involved in attention/focus, plays a role in responding to stress, affects mood regulation, norepinephrine is the main hormone released from the locus coeruleus (pons of the brainstem)
PNS functions of norepinephrine/epinephrine
Increases heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar. Prepares the body for “fight or flight”. Epinephrine is the main hormone released from the medulla of the adrenal glands
CNS functions of Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)
Primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, reduces neuronal excitability, helps regulate anxiety & stress
PNS functions of GABA
Influences muscle tone, plays a role in various physiological processes
CNS functions of Glutamate
It’s the main excitatory neurotransmitter, crucial for synaptic plasticity, and involved in learning and memory
PNS function of Glutamate
Regulates blood flow and plays a role in neuronal communication
CNS function of Endorphins
Act as natural pain relievers & involved in feelings of pleasure and euphoria
PNS function of endorphins
Regulate pain, influence stress responses, play a role in immune functions
CNS function of Histamine
Regulates sleep-wake cycles and involved in arousal and cognitive functions
PNS functions of Histamine
Plays a role in immune response & involved in gastric acid secretion
What is CNS & PNS
Central nervous system & peripheral nervous system
