Traditional Criteria Of Neurotransmitters

Question 1

What are the criteria for traditional neurotransmitters?

Answer 1

1. Synthesized by presynaptic neurons
2. Stored in preparation for release
3. Released by presynaptic neurons in a calcium-dependent fashion
4. Specialized receptors (typically postsynaptic) effect stereotyped transmitter- and analogue-dependent physiological changes
5. Mechanism for removal of transmitter from synapse

Question 2

What are the lo molecular weight transmitters?

Answer 2

Monoamines- catechol, indlamines (tryptophan, serotonin), others-histamine, taurine

Amino acids, including GABA

Purinesx adenosine, ATP, AMP, ADP

Gases-NO, CO

Question 3

What are the high molecular weights?

Answer 3

Neuroactive peptides are more numerous than low weight