Neurotransmitter Chemical Structures

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering neurotransmitters and the key chemical functional groups defining their structures.

Acetylcholine

A compound identified by a chemical structure featuring a positively charged quaternary nitrogen ($N^+$).

GABA

An inhibitory neurotransmitter whose chemical structure features an amino group ($H_2N$) and a carboxylic acid hydroxyl group ($OH$).

Serotonin

A compound with a chemical structure containing a bicyclic ring system with nitrogen ($N$ / $ZI$), a hydroxyl group ($OH$), and an amino group ($H_2N$).

Noradrenaline (Norepinephrine)

A catecholamine whose chemical structure features two ring hydroxyl groups ($HO$), a side-chain hydroxyl group ($OH$), and a primary amine group ($-NH_2$).

Adrenaline (Epinephrine)

A catecholamine whose chemical structure is characterized by two ring hydroxyl groups ($HO$, $-OH$), a side-chain hydroxyl group ($OH$), and a secondary amine group ($HN-$).

Dopamine

A catecholamine whose chemical structure consists of two ring hydroxyl groups ($OH$, $-OH$) and an aminoethyl side chain ending in a primary amine ($H_2N-$).