neurotransmitter
A diagram shows a neurotransmitter crossing the synaptic gap between two neurons.
Noun: A chemical substance that is released at the end of a nerve fiber (neuron) when a nerve impulse arrives. It diffuses across the synapse (the small gap between neurons) and transmits the signal to the next neuron, muscle cell, or gland cell, thereby enabling communication within the nervous system.
Neurotransmitter is a countable noun used to refer to specific types of these chemical messengers. It is a technical term primarily used in the fields of biology, neuroscience, medicine, and psychology. - It is typically used with verbs like release, produce, bind to, block, affect, and regulate. - Common prepositions used with it include across (the synapse), between (neurons), and like (for giving examples).
- Dopamine and serotonin are important neurotransmitters that regulate mood and motivation.
- The drug works by inhibiting the reuptake of a specific neurotransmitter.
- When an electrical signal reaches the end of a neuron, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters.
- An imbalance of certain neurotransmitters is associated with some neurological disorders.
- Neurotransmitter system/receptor: Refers to the complete set of components involved in the function of a specific neurotransmitter.
- The study focused on the GABA neurotransmitter system.
- Neurotransmitter activity/level: Refers to the amount or functional state of neurotransmitters.
- Exercise can influence neurotransmitter levels in the brain.
- Neurotransmission (n): The process of communication between neurons using neurotransmitters.
- The drug alters the speed of neurotransmission.
- Neurotransmit (v, rare): To transmit a signal via neurotransmitters. (Note: This verb form is very rarely used; the process is typically described as "neurotransmitter release" or "signal transmission.")
- Neuromodulator (n): A substance that modifies the effects of neurotransmitters but does not directly transmit signals itself.
- Chemical messenger (a more general term that can also refer to hormones).
- Neuromediator (a less common synonym).
- Neurotransmitter reuptake: The process by which a neurotransmitter is reabsorbed by the neuron that released it, terminating its signal.
- SSRIs are antidepressants that block the reuptake of serotonin.
- Neurotransmitter imbalance: A theoretical state where levels of neurotransmitters are not optimal, often discussed in the context of mental health.
- Excitatory/inhibitory neurotransmitter: A classification based on whether the chemical promotes or suppresses the generation of a new nerve impulse in the receiving cell.
- Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain.
A diagram shows a neurotransmitter crossing the synaptic gap between two neurons.
- a neurochemical that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse