Neurotransmitters and Their Functions

This set of flashcards covers key neurotransmitters, their functions, and examples of malfunctions associated with each.

Neurotransmitter

Chemical messengers that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neurotransmitter that enables muscle action, learning, and memory; malfunctions include Alzheimer's disease.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter that influences movement, learning, attention, and emotion; excess linked to schizophrenia, and deficit leads to Parkinson's disease.

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter that affects mood, hunger, sleep, and arousal; undersupply linked to depression.

Norepinephrine

A neurotransmitter involved in alertness and arousal; undersupply linked to depression.

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid)

A major inhibitory neurotransmitter; undersupply linked to seizures, tremors, and insomnia.

Glutamate

A major excitatory neurotransmitter involved in memory; oversupply can overstimulate the brain.