Neurotransmitters and cell signaling

Neurotransmitters act as chemical messengers that are released from neurons in order to communicate with other cells. These neurotransmitters can activate several signaling pathways within the body that ultimately lead to a variety of cellular responses. Essentially, the release of neurotransmitters serves as an intercellular communication mechanism between neurons and other cells. Neurons produce several types of neurotransmitters, all of which can act on cell surface receptors that are specific to a particular type of neurotransmitter. Once the receptor detects a neurotransmitter, it triggers a chain of events inside the cell known as signal transduction, which involves relaying the message from the neurotransmitter to the target cell. Some of the most widely studied neurotransmitters include acetylcholine, norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine. Signaling can be thought of as a highly-orchestrated collaboration between neurons and other cells in order to relay information within the body. For example, when dopamine is released from a neuron it binds to specific receptors on the surface of another cell that then activates other mechanisms within the cell that can alter the cell’s behavior. This communication network is essential for normal physiological function, especially in the brain and the nervous system. The neurotransmitters and their respective receptors are exquisitely regulated, and the existence of defects in neurotransmitter systems can lead to numerous medical conditions, such as depression, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Many drugs on the market today are designed to target specific neurotransmitters, such as selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRI), which are commonly used to treat depression. By understanding the physiological mechanisms surrounding neurotransmitter release, scientists can continue to uncover new treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders.