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Neurochemistry: Difference between revisions
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'''The word neurochemical is a combination of ''neuron,'' the electrical subunit of the brain and ''chemical'' which refers to specific interneuron messenger molecules.''' The reason the brain uses both chemical and electrical systems is that neurons are used for immediate messaging whereas | [[File:Neurochemistry1.png|alt=Neurochemistry|thumb]] | ||
'''The word neurochemical is a combination of ''neuron,'' the electrical subunit of the brain and ''chemical'' which refers to specific interneuron messenger molecules.''' The reason the brain uses both chemical and electrical systems is that neurons are used for immediate messaging whereas chemicals are used for messages which are slower acting or require a longer duration of action. | |||
Electricity | Electricity is limited in its action as a messenger as it can only work instantaneously (at the speed of light). Think of the knee jerk response, a closed loop electrical reflex, an input results in instantaneous output. This is useful for immediate danger scenarios and became a prime fitness driver of evolution. However, there comes a point where there is an overload of information from neurons, hence the chemical side evolved enabling slower, more prolonged responses. | ||
== Neurotransmitters == | == Neurotransmitters == | ||
Whilst [[dopamine]] is one of the most important neurotransmitters, | Whilst [[dopamine]] is one of the most important neurotransmitters in regards to human behaviour, it is only one in a symphony others: | ||
*'''GABA''' is an example of an inhibitory neurotransmitter its effects are similar to that of alcohol or benzodiazepines. | *'''GABA''' is an example of an inhibitory neurotransmitter its effects are similar to that of alcohol or benzodiazepines. | ||