Acetylcholine:
- it is a chemical transmitter in the central/parasympathetic nervous system
- it is the first neurotransmitter discovered
- it is a deliverer of sodium ions
- people who have Alzheimer's Disease have a shortage of acetylcholine
- it is an ester of acetic acid and choline
- too much acetylcholine can decrease heart rate, while a shortage causes motor dysfunction
- can be used in cataract surgery to constrict the pupil
Seratonin:
- a neurotransmitter involved in the transmission of nerve signals
- it is made by the amino acid tryptophan
- it maintains our happiness, and keeps emotions under control
- seratonin is used in depression medications
- in the nerve cell, it is released from the end of the presynaptic cell, and then binds to the postsynaptic cell
Endorphins:
- it works with sedative receptors to relieve pain
- it produces a natural "high" feeling, but it's not addicting
- leads to pleasure; good feelings
- high levels of endorphins lead to less pain and stress
- meditation can increase endorphin amounts
Norepinephrine:
- is a hormone and a neurotransmitter
- as it hormone it gives the body quick energy when stressed
- as a neurotransmitter is transmits nerve impluses from one neuron to the next
- its main function is a stress hormone; the brain releases it in times of stress
