MONOAMINE NEUROTRANSMITTER Meaning and
Definition
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A monoamine neurotransmitter is a type of chemical messenger in the brain and nervous system that belongs to a class of organic compounds known as amines. Monoamines are derived from the amino acid tyrosine or tryptophan and act as signaling molecules in the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS). These neurotransmitters are crucial for relaying information between neurons and regulating various physiological processes.
Examples of monoamine neurotransmitters include dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and epinephrine. Each of these neurotransmitters plays a unique role in transmitting signals across synapses within the brain and between the brain and other parts of the body. They are involved in controlling mood, emotions, cognition, motivation, arousal, sleep, appetite, and other important functions.
The synthesis, release, and reuptake of monoamine neurotransmitters are tightly regulated mechanisms. Any disruption in this delicate balance can lead to neurological and psychiatric disorders. For instance, dopamine dysregulation is associated with Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia, while serotonin imbalances are implicated in depression and anxiety disorders.
Monoamine neurotransmitters are often targeted by medications designed to modulate their levels or activity, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) used for the treatment of depression. Understanding the intricate roles and interactions of these neurotransmitters is crucial for advancing our knowledge of neurochemical processes and developing therapeutic interventions for various neurological and psychiatric conditions.
Common Misspellings for MONOAMINE NEUROTRANSMITTER
- nonoamine neurotransmitter
- konoamine neurotransmitter
- jonoamine neurotransmitter
- minoamine neurotransmitter
- mknoamine neurotransmitter
- mlnoamine neurotransmitter
- mpnoamine neurotransmitter
- m0noamine neurotransmitter
- m9noamine neurotransmitter
- moboamine neurotransmitter
- momoamine neurotransmitter
- mojoamine neurotransmitter
- mohoamine neurotransmitter
- moniamine neurotransmitter
- monkamine neurotransmitter
- monlamine neurotransmitter
- monpamine neurotransmitter
- mon0amine neurotransmitter
- mon9amine neurotransmitter
Etymology of MONOAMINE NEUROTRANSMITTER
The word "monoamine neurotransmitter" has its roots in the etymology of its individual components:
1. "Mono-" comes from the Greek word "monos", meaning "single" or "alone".
2. "Amine" originates from the Old English word "ammonia" and the Latin word "ammoniacum", both of which refer to a substance extracted from the gum resin of an Egyptian shrub called "ammiakon". This substance was then associated with ammonia. The suffix "-ine" is often used to denote a chemical compound.
3. "Neurotransmitter" is a compound word comprising "neuro-" from the Greek word "neuron", meaning "nerve", and "transmitter", derived from the Latin word "transmittere", meaning "to send across".
