Neurotransmitters
(Orange one-> epinephrine). Human body is controlled by the brain and the nervous system. This nervous system has two divisions as central and peripheral nervous system. The stimulation and nerve impulses are carried by neurotransmitters. These are chemical messengers present in the brain, spinal cord and nerve junctions. They have the name due to their presence and function in relation to nervous systems. These substances as the name indicates are meant for transfer of signals from place to another other in the body. They are released into the junction of two neurons (neuron synapse or synaptic cleft) and then they act on the neurotransmitter receptors present on the next neuron to continue the signal. They help in control of the functions, actions and also movements of the body by the brain. Their study is important in subjects like anatomy & physiology, patho-physiology of disease and also in pharmacology. There are different types of neurotransmitter with diverse functions and roles in the body. They are organic substances which have shortest span of action. Their action lasts for fraction of seconds at times. They are so quick in action and retraction. They can be compared with hormones as they have similar properties and mode of actions. Hence we can conveniently call them as neuro-hormones. They are mostly synthesized within the neuron cell and stored in vesicles (sac). A change in voltage potential along the nerve membrane, helps release neurotransmitter.
