6 - Neurochemicals Associated with Positive Emotions

Direct agonist

neurotransmitter that binds with and activates a receptor

Direct antagonist or receptor blocker

binds with a receptor but does not activate it; prevents the natural ligand from binding with the receptor

Indirect agonist or antagonist

some receptors may have multiple binding sites to which neuromodulators and drugs can bind – these substances may act as indirect agonists or antagonists

Main Neurotransmitters

• Glutamate (excitatory)

• GABA (inhibitory)

Neurotransmitters Associated with Happiness (DOSE)

• Dopamine

• Oxytocin

• Serotonin

• Endorphins

Dopamine

• Related to anticipatory pleasure and motivation

• Reinforces behaviors that lead to rewards

• Involved in reinforcing effects of abused drugs

Oxytocin

The “cuddle hormone”

• Creates feelings of caring, warmth, and trust

• Increases loyalty and bonding; makes relationships grow

• Encourages eye-to-eye contact

• Dampens amygdala arousal (fear response) and promotes approach-type behaviors – produces feelings of calm and contentment

Serotonin (5-HT)

• Plays important role in the regulation of mood, control of eating, sleep, dreaming, and arousal

• Also involved in the regulation of pain

Endorphins

Peptide neuromodulators secreted by the central nervous system that bind with opioid receptors:

• Reduce pain

• Stimulate reinforcement

• Studies using rodents

Endocannabinoids

Lipid neuromodulators involved in addiction to certain foods, as well as in runner’s high