Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitter

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

Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neuromodulator that enables muscle action, learning, and memory; associated with Alzheimer's disease when malfunctioning.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter that regulates motor activity and influences movement, learning, attention, and emotion; linked to schizophrenia if in excess, and Parkinson’s disease if deficient.

Serotonin

Affects mood, hunger, sleep, dreaming, pain regulation, and arousal; undersupply is linked to depression.

Norepinephrine

Helps control alertness and arousal; undersupply can lead to a depressed mood.

GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid)

The major inhibitory neurotransmitter; undersupply can result in seizures, tremors, and insomnia.

Glutamate

A major excitatory neurotransmitter involved in memory and learning; oversupply can cause overstimulation leading to migraines and seizures.

Endorphins

Neurotransmitters involved in pain control and pleasure; deficiency can lead to depression, moodiness, trouble sleeping, and body pains.