Neurotransmitters and Parts of a Neuron

GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)

A major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain that helps calm neural activity.
Associated Diseases: Low levels are linked to anxiety disorders, seizures, and insomnia.

Endorphins

Neurotransmitters involved in pain relief and pleasure. They act similarly to opioids and are released in response to stress or discomfort.
Associated Conditions: Low levels may be linked to chronic pain or depression.

Dopamine

Involved in reward, motivation, pleasure, and motor control. Dopamine also plays a role in attention and learning.
Associated Diseases:

• Parkinson’s disease (due to dopamine depletion in motor areas)

• Schizophrenia (excess dopamine activity)

• Addiction (linked to the dopamine reward pathway).

Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neurotransmitter involved in muscle movement, memory, and learning.
Associated Diseases:

• Alzheimer's disease (reduced levels of acetylcholine)

• Disorders affecting muscle control like myasthenia gravis.

Serotonin

Regulates mood, appetite, sleep, and emotional balance.
Associated Diseases:

• Depression (low serotonin levels)

• Anxiety and sleep disorders.

Norepinephrine (NE)

Involved in alertness, arousal, and the fight-or-flight response. Also plays a role in mood regulation.
Associated Diseases:

• Depression (low levels)

• Anxiety (high levels)

• Stress disorders.

Dendrites

Branch-like extensions of the neuron that receive signals from other neurons and transmit them toward the cell body.

Axon

A long, slender projection that carries electrical signals (action potentials) away from the cell body to the axon terminals.

Axon Terminal

The endpoint of a neuron where neurotransmitters are stored and released into the synapse to communicate with other neurons.

Myelin Sheath

A fatty covering that insulates the axon and speeds up the transmission of electrical signals.
Associated Disease:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) (due to the breakdown of the myelin sheath, resulting in impaired communication between neurons).