AP Psych: Unit 1.3- Chemical Messengers (Notes Version)

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers that transmit signals between neurons, allowing for communication within the nervous system

Excitatory neurotransmitters

Chemicals released by neurons that increase the likelihood of an action potential occurring in the postsynaptic neuron

Glutamate

The primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the CNS playing a key role in synaptic transmission and neuronal communication. Functions include learning, memory, and neural plasticity.

Inhibitory Neurotransmitters

Chemicals released by neurons that decrease the likelihood of an action potential occurring in the postsynaptic neuron

GABA

a neurotransmitter that acts as the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the CNS, promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety

Dopamine

neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, reward, motivation, and movement

Serotonin

Neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and stress

Endorphins

Neurotransmitters produced by the brain and CNS that act as natural pain relievers and mood enhancers

Substance P

Neurotransmitter involved in transmitting pain signals in the nervous system

Acetylcholine

Neurotransmitter that plays a fundamental role in both the CNS and the PNS. Functions include muscle contraction, memory, and learning.

Hormones

Chemical messengers produced by glands in the endocrine system that travel through the bloodstream to target organs or cells, where they regulate various physiological processes and behaviors

Ghrelin

Hormone produced primarily by the stomach and small intestine that stimulates appetite and promotes hunger

Leptin

Hormone produced primarily by fat cells that regulates energy balance and appetite

Melatonin

Hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and circadian rhythms in the body

Oxytocin

Hormone and neurotransmitter that plays a key role in social bonding

Adrenaline

Hormone and neurotransmitter that plays a key role in the body’s stress response, often referred to as the fight or flight response

Norepinephrine

Neurotransmitter that functions as both a hormone and neurotransmitter in the body, involved in the fight or flight response

Agonist

A substance that increases or enhances the actions of a neurotransmitter

Antagonist

A substance that attaches to the receptors for certain neurotransmitters and blocks them from having an effect