INHIBITORY NEUROTRANSMITTER Meaning and
Definition
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An inhibitory neurotransmitter refers to a specific type of chemical substance that is responsible for transmitting signals within the nervous system, particularly in the brain. It is primarily involved in regulating and reducing the activity levels of neurons or nerve cells, thus having a dampening or inhibitory effect on neural communication. Inhibitory neurotransmitters work by binding to specific receptor proteins on the surface of neurons, which then leads to a decrease in the likelihood of an action potential or electrical signal being generated in the receiving neuron.
One of the most common examples of an inhibitory neurotransmitter is gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is widely distributed throughout the brain and central nervous system and plays a vital role in balancing neural activity. When GABA molecules bind to GABA receptors on a neuron, they open chloride ion channels, leading to the influx of negatively charged chloride ions. This influx results in hyperpolarization, making it more difficult for the neuron to reach the action potential threshold and subsequently reducing the likelihood of firing an electrical signal.
Inhibitory neurotransmitters are crucial for maintaining the delicate balance between excitation and inhibition in the brain. By inhibiting excessive neural activity, they help regulate processes such as muscle coordination, arousal levels, sleep, and mood. Imbalances in the levels of inhibitory neurotransmitters or their receptors have been linked to various neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, anxiety disorders, and schizophrenia.
Etymology of INHIBITORY NEUROTRANSMITTER
The etymology of the term "inhibitory neurotransmitter" can be broken down as follows:
1. Inhibition: The word "inhibition" originated from the Latin term "inhibitio", derived from the verb "inhibere", which can be broken down into "in-" (meaning "into" or "on") and "habere" (meaning "to have" or "to hold"). The Latin term evolved into Old French "inhibition" and then into Middle English "inhibicioun", referring to the act of restraining or holding back.
