Definition

1. Noun:
   • Any organic substance that occurs in neural activity: A neurochemical is a chemical substance, such as a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator, that is produced by and acts upon the nervous system, influencing neural function and communication.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Dopamine is a crucial neurochemical involved in reward and motivation pathways in the brain.
  • Researchers are studying the imbalance of specific neurochemicals in patients with depression.
  • The release of this neurochemical at the synapse facilitates communication between neurons.

Advanced Usage

• As a modifier: The term "neurochemical" is often used attributively (like an adjective) to describe processes, pathways, or imbalances.
  • The study focused on the neurochemical basis of addiction.
  • Scientists observed a neurochemical change following the experimental treatment.

Variants and Related Words

• Neurochemistry (n): The branch of biochemistry concerned with the chemical processes and substances occurring in the nervous system.
  • Her research is in the field of neurochemistry.
• Neurochemicals (n): Plural form of neurochemical.
  • Various neurochemicals interact to regulate mood.

Synonyms

• Neuromodulator: A substance that alters neuronal activity.
• Neurotransmitter: A specific type of neurochemical that transmits signals across a synapse.

Related Phrases

• Neurochemical activity: The functioning and interaction of neurochemicals in the nervous system.
  • The drug affects overall neurochemical activity.
• Neurochemical profile: The specific combination and levels of neurochemicals in an individual or research subject.
  • The analysis revealed a unique neurochemical profile.

Noun

1. any organic substance that occurs in neural activity