What is neurotransmitters?

1.	What is neurotransmitters?
Answer» In 1921, an Austrian scientist named Otto Loewi discovered the first neurotransmitter by experimenting on frogs. Neurotransmitters are the chemicals which allow the transmission of signals from a neuron to a target cell across synapses. Neurotransmitters are packaged into synaptic vesicles and are released into and diffuse across the synaptic cleft, where they may be accepted by the next neuron at a specialized site called a receptor at postsynaptic side of the synapse Important Neurotransmitters include:Serotonin: Helps in the smooth transmission of messages in the brain and the body. Play important role in regulation of mood, appetite, memory and learning. A lack of serotonin may result in low self-esteem, depression, aggression.Dopamine: Plays a vital role in regulating pain and pleasure.\xa0Melatonin: Mainly related to wake and sleep cycles.Epinephrine: Plays a role in instant actions, such as those involving fear or danger.\xa0Acetylcholine: Enhances memory (it is the chemical responsible for many dreams)\xa0Endorphin (neuropeptide): The body’s natural pain killer.\xa0Cortisol (neuropeptide): A chemical released when we are under stress - at high levels, it can be dangerous because it interrupts transmission of messages from neuron to neuron.

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