neurotransmitters

neurotransmitters

1. chemical messengers communicate between neurons across synapse

   • stored at terminal of pre-synaptic neuron
     • receptors on surface of post-synaptic neurons
       • information transmitted electrically by action potentials along neurons by excitation or inhibition
         • specific shapes of neurotransmitters and receptors
           • process repeats

2. malfunctions at synapse associated with mental illness e.g. low levels of serotonin and depression

3. reuptake (taken back into neuron)

   • Prozac is SSSRI and treatment for depression