Question

4. A neurotransmitter is a chemical that relays signals, across the synapses between neurons. Describe the following neurotransmitters and explain their functions in the human body giving examples of the disorders associated with them.
i. Acetylcholine (ACh)
ii. Dopamine
iii. Endorphins
iv. Glutamate
v. Serotonin

Answer 1

i. Acetylcholine (ACh)- Acetylcholine causes muscles to contract, activates pain responses and regulates endocrine and REM sleep functions. Deficiencies in acetylcholine can lead to myasthenia gravis or muscle weakness. Too little acetylcholine may also lead to Alzheimer's disease which is a decline in cognitive abilities and memory loss.

ii. Dopamine- Dopamine is a messenger neurotransmitter in the brain that allows nerve cells to communicate with one another. Dopamine is critical to central nervous system functions such as movement, pleasure, attention, mood, and motivation. Scientists have linked low levels of dopamine with Parkinson's disease.

iii. Endorphins- Endorphins are neurotransmitter chemicals that help to relieve pain or stress and also boost happiness. If one’s body isn't producing enough endorphins, one might experience, depression. anxiety & moodiness.

iv. Glutamate-Is responsible for sending signals between nerve cells and it plays an important role in learning and memory. Abnormalities of glutamatergic neurotransmission play an important role in the development of many major psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder .

v. Serotonin-Is found to regulate anxiety, happiness and mood. Low levels of this neurotransmitter have been associated with depression,