Neurotransmitters

on Physical and Mental Behavior
Maureen Haynes
PSY 350
Prof: Alina Perez-Sheppe
Aug 8, 2011

Neurotransmitters on Physical and Mental Behavior Our physical and mental behavior is controlled by what is called Neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters are described as free floating chemicals in our brain transmit signals in the synapse, a junction that permits a neuron to pass electrical signals to other cells. In this paper I will identify four major neurotransmitters, such as the dopamine, acetylcholine, gaba and glutamate. Plus, I will analyze their function, and evaluate their impact on physical and mental behavior. Neurotransmitters are stored in minute sac called vesicles located at the end of axons. When an impulse, reaches the
end of the axon, the vesicles discharge a neurotransmitter into a space between the cells. Also, neurotransmitters spread across the synapse and attach to receptors in the receiving cell that are designed for the neurotransmitter. Furthermore, the cell may be stimulated or the opposite may occur which can inhibited the cell from transmitting the impulse. (science. Jrank.org, 2011) The neurotransmitter dopamine is stored in the synapse vessels and is prevalent in the brain and the nervous system. Also, it is involved in muscle control and function, and when dopamine levels are low, it can cause loss of motor. In addition, it can cause depression, addictions, cravings, compulsions, low sex drive, poor attention and focus. (Integrative Psychiatry, 2011) The neurotransmitter acetylcholine carries nerve impulses across an opening between the synapse. “Acetylcholine is also one of the neurotransmitters that play a very important role in memory” “its main use if for control of sensory input signals and muscular control.” It is also known as a stimulatory neurotransmitter. Also, when muscle nerves release acetylcholine, it makes the muscles contract. The drugs Tolterodine, SSRIs and cannabinoids that are used to treat the symptoms of multiple sclerosis operate by modifying the functioning of acetylcholine. (Acetylcholine.org, 2011) Sometimes the brain experiences an excess of nervous tension and stress, this can be caused by an abundance of adrenaline.
To counterbalance the additional adrenaline, the brain produces a neurotransmitter called GABA which is the most important inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. It helps the neurons mend after transmission, and decrease anxiety and stress. GABA is a significant mood modulator and has inhibitory effects upon the nervous system. (NeuroGenesis, 2011)
Glutamate is the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain which is necessary for learning and memory. When glutamate is at a low level it can lead to weariness and poor brain function. But, when glutamate is increased it can cause death to the neurons in the brain. “Dysfunction in glutamate levels are involved in many neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's, Huntington's, and Tourette's. High levels also contribute to Depression, OCD, and Autism.” (Integrative Psychiatry, 2011) Neurotransmitters plays a vital role in our physical and mental behavior, and eating a healthy diet and taking the proper supplement can help our brain and physical being to function
properly.

Reference
GABA (Gamma-Amino Butyric Acid) - Tension and Stress Control [NeuroGenesis]. (n.d.). Retrieved August 8, 2011, from http://www.neurogenesis.com/ Neurotransmitters/gaba.php
Neurotransmitter - Function Of Neurotransmitters(n.d.). Retrieved August 8, 2011, from http://science.jrank.org/pages/4619/Neurotransmitter-Function-neurotransmitters.html
The Bioidentical Hormone Therapy Information You've Been Looking For [Acetylcholine ]. . (n.d.). Retrieved August 8, 2011, from http://acetylcholine.org/
The Four Major Neurotransmitters. (n.d.). Retrieved August 8, 2011, from http://www.integrativepsychiatry.net/neurotransmitter.html