2C Neurotransmitters + Neuromodulators

• Difference between neuromodulators and neurotransmitters

  • Neuromodulators have an effect on multiple postsynaptic neurons, whereas neurotransmitters only have their effect on one or two postsynaptic neurons
  • Neuromodulators influence neural activity on a larger and slower scale than neurotransmitters.
• Similarity between neuromodulators and neurotransmitters

  • neurotransmitters and neuromodulators must bind to their specific receptor sites to have their effect on a postsynaptic neuron
  • both released into the neural synapse by the presynaptic neuron.
• Serotonin has an important role in regulating mood. Appropriate levels of serotonin in the brain promotes positive and stable moods. Serotonin also has the role in regulating sleep-wake cycle, influencing the quality and quantity of sleep at night, and feelings of alertness and wakefulness during the day.
• Glutamate is released from the axon terminals of the presynaptic neuron into the synaptic gap. Glutamate binds to corresponding receptor sites on the dendrites of the postsynaptic neuron that match its specific molecular structure. Once bound, glutamate can successfully have its excitatory effect on the postsynaptic neuron, making it more likely to fire an action potential.
• Without excitatory effects counterbalancing inhibitory effects, postsynaptic neurons in neural pathways may be inadequately stimulated and activated, which may cause learning and concentration difficulties. Conversely, without inhibitory effects counterbalancing excitatory effects, postsynaptic neurons in neural pathways may fire uncontrollably, which may cause anxiety and seizures.
• GABA is released from the axon terminals of the presynaptic neuron into the synaptic gap. GABA binds to corresponding receptor sites on the dendrites of the postsynaptic neuron that match its specific molecular structure.