Neurotransmitters Flashcards
Acetylcholine
A neurotransmitter that is used to transmit nerve impulses to muscles for contraction in the peripheral nervous system; it is linked to attention and arousal in the central nervous system.
Epinephrine and Norepinephrine
Neurotransmitters from the pons that control alertness and wakefulness and are responsible for the fight-or-flight response; involved in the peripheral nervous system
Dopamine
A neurotransmitter that is responsible for smooth movements, postural stability, and being happy. It is linked with schizophrenia (high levels) and Parkinson’s disease (low levels)
Serotonin
A neurotransmitter that is responsible for regulating mood, eating, sleeping and dreaming. It plays a role in depression and mania as well as feeling content
GABA
A neurotransmitter that produces inhibitory post-synaptic potentials and plays a role in stabilizing neural activity of the brain
Glutamate
An amino acid that acts as an excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system; part of the reticular activation system and required for consciousness
Glycine
An amino acid that acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the spinal cord
Endorphins
Peptide neurotransmitters that act as natural painkillers
Histamine
A neurotransmitter from the hypothalamus sent to the cerebral cortex