Neurotransmitter
A chemical substance that is released at the end of a nerve fiber by the arrival of a nerve impulse and, by diffusing across the synapse or junction, causes the transfer of the impulse to another nerve fiber, a muscle fiber, or some other structure.
The specific chemical messengers that enable communication across the synaptic gap, crucial for all brain functions.
Word relationships
- chemical messenger: A broader term; 'neurotransmitter' specifies the context within the nervous system.
Commonly confused with
- hormone: Hormones are chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream to target cells throughout the body, while neurotransmitters act locally across synapses.
Collocations
- release neurotransmitter
- neurotransmitter levels
- neurotransmitter receptors
- balance of neurotransmitters
Example sentences
- "Serotonin and dopamine are well-known neurotransmitters that play significant roles in mood regulation and reward pathways." Explaining brain chemistry
- "Many antidepressant medications work by altering the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain." Pharmacology
Memory hook
A NEURO-TRANSMITTER is like a 'nerve-transmitter' – it transmits messages in the nervous system. Nerve transmitter
When not to use
Do not use 'neurotransmitter' for any chemical messenger in the body; it refers specifically to those acting at synapses.
Fun facts
- There are over 100 known neurotransmitters, each with specific functions.
- Some neurotransmitters, like acetylcholine, can act as both excitatory and inhibitory depending on the receptor.
Explore more words
neural, addiction, concussion, neuroplasticity, signal, trigger
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