Neurotransmitters are the main components responsible for brain function. Any imbalance in neurotransmitter secretion can lead to cognitive and mood disorders. Therefore, people should stay aware of their brain health by knowing about neurotransmitters and their types in detail. Read here to know more!
Types of Neurotransmitters
The brain has different types of neurotransmitters for different functions. For example:
- Excitatory Neurotransmitters: These are responsible for triggering actions. Ex: Epinephrine and Norepinephrine.
- Inhibitory Neurotransmitters: These chemical elements inhibit the action potential of different cells. Ex: Serotonin and GABA.
- Modulatory Neurotransmitters: These are messengers that take messages to different cells with the help of chemical components.
Depending on the types of neurotransmitters and their functions, there are almost 40 neurotransmitters in the human body. Some of the most important are as follows:
1. Acetylcholine
Acetylcholine falls under the excitatory neurotransmitter category that performs different roles. This brain chemical is responsible for smooth muscle contraction, stimulates sweat and saliva production, and regulates heart rhythm. It is also connected with memory and other cognitive functions.
Therefore, abnormality in acetylcholine production may lead to memory loss and related disease. Moreover, if acetylcholine increases significantly, it may cause paralysis, increased saliva production, diarrhoea, etc.
2. Dopamine
Dopamine is another important neurotransmitter that is responsible for memory, learning, behaviour, and movement. In addition, dopamine somewhat also controls blood circulation.
Moreover, dopamine is associated with pleasurable feelings. It is an essential component in the brain’s reward and pleasure regions. As dopamine controls decision-making abilities, abnormalities in dopamine production may lead to poor cognitive function.
3. Serotonin
Serotonin is another type of neurotransmitter that regulates mood and appetite. Found in the central nervous system, serotonin carries “happy chemicals” that promote overall well-being. Therefore, any kind of mood disorder, such as OCD, depression, anxiety, etc., requires serotonin boosting to heal.
Besides, it also boosts your appetite and prevents hunger loss, along with maintaining heart rate and hormonal balance.
4. Norepinephrine
Norepinephrine or noradrenaline is responsible for increasing heart rate and blood pressure. This neurotransmitter helps in decision-making, alertness, focus, and attention. Abnormalities in norepinephrine may cause serious cognitive disorders.
Doctors may prescribe stimulants and necessary medication to improve your norepinephrine secretion and treat several disorders like brain impairment, depression, etc.
5. Glutamate
One of the most common types of neurotransmitters is glutamate, which is an amino acid variant responsible for regulating cognitive functions. It is necessary for regular brain functions such as thinking, memorising, learning, etc.
Abnormality in glutamate production may cause serious consequences like seizures, Parkinson’s Disease, dementia, etc.
6. GABA
GABA, or Gamma aminobutyric acid, is a major neurotransmitter that regulates your nervous system and helps to manage problems like anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, concentration issues, irritability, etc.
7. Endorphins
Endorphins do a very interesting activity, which is inhibiting pain. Therefore, doctors prescribe exercises to manage different pains and reduce mental agony.
8. Histamine
Histamine is another important neurotransmitter that regulates different physical actions, including sleep and hunger control. However, most importantly, histamine is vital for showing allergic reactions. This neurotransmitter lets the body react to foreign elements as per the capability of your immune system and helps you identify them and take precautions.
9. Oxytocin
Oxytocin or love hormones are another important neurotransmitter that can improve your social bonding, relationships, maternal behaviour, and other similar brain functions. Oxytocin is also helpful for alleviating the problems caused by stress and anxiety. This hormone gets released at the time of hugging, breastfeeding, kissing, and showing affection.
10. Adenosine
Adenosine is a neurotransmitter and also a neuromodulator. This brain chemical plays a vital role in promoting sleep and relaxation. At times, when you work hard or skip a proper sleep schedule for a long time, your body releases adenosine and tries to bring back the sleepiness to ensure you are getting enough rest to go about your daily activities without any problems.
Neurotransmitters and Their Functions
Neurotransmitters are responsible for various functions, overall well-being, and cognitive improvements. The distinct functions of these brain chemicals are as follows:
1. Motor Control
Acetylcholine and dopamine are two neurotransmitters that help in motor control and coordination. Muscle contraction is stimulated by acetylcholine, whereas movement and motor planning are regulated by dopamine. Therefore, movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and Huntington’s disease can result from deficiencies or imbalances in these neurotransmitters.
2. Mood Regulation
Every type of mood disorder is directly linked to neurotransmitters. Serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, etc. are major mood-influencing neurotransmitters. Therefore, if anyone faces any mood-related issues or severe disorders like bipolar disorder, doctors prescribe neurotransmitter-boosting medicines.
3. Sleep and Wakefulness
Neurotransmitters influence your sleep cycle a lot. For example, GABA is helpful for sleep and relaxation, whereas serotonin keeps you awake. Therefore, sleep disorder treatments also involve neurotransmitter-controlling or boosting medicines.
4. Cognitive Function
Glutamate and acetylcholine are essential for cognitive functions like memory, learning, and attention. These two brain chemicals improve synaptic plasticity, which is necessary for better learning and memorising capabilities. Neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive impairment can result from neurotransmitter disorders.
Conclusion
To sum up, neurotransmitters are chemicals that are extremely necessary for regulating our daily lives, behaviour, and physical activities. If you notice symptoms like low productivity, appetite loss, or cognitive impairment, you should consult a doctor, go for a neurotransmitter test, and then opt for necessary treatment.
