NEUROMODULATORS Meaning and
Definition
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Neuromodulators are a class of chemical substances that play a crucial role in regulating the activity of neurons (nerve cells) within the central nervous system (CNS). These substances act by modulating the function of neuronal circuits, rather than directly influencing the action potentials or electrical activity of neurons.
Neuromodulators are typically released by specific neurons in the CNS and interact with receptors on target neurons, altering their excitability and synaptic transmission. Unlike neurotransmitters, which are involved in direct cell-to-cell communication, neuromodulators have a broader influence on large populations of neurons and can modulate various aspects of neural functioning.
Examples of neuromodulators include serotonin, dopamine, acetylcholine, norepinephrine, and oxytocin. Each of these chemical substances is involved in specific physiological processes and contributes to the regulation of important functions such as mood, motivation, attention, memory, sleep, and appetite.
Neuromodulators play a fundamental role in maintaining the delicate balance of neural activity within the brain. Dysfunctions or imbalances in neuromodulatory systems can lead to various neurological and psychiatric disorders, such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, understanding the actions and interactions of neuromodulators is crucial for advancing research and treatment in the field of neuroscience.
Common Misspellings for NEUROMODULATORS
- beuromodulators
- meuromodulators
- jeuromodulators
- heuromodulators
- nwuromodulators
- nsuromodulators
- nduromodulators
- nruromodulators
- n4uromodulators
- n3uromodulators
- neyromodulators
- nehromodulators
- nejromodulators
- neiromodulators
- ne8romodulators
- ne7romodulators
- neueomodulators
- neudomodulators
- neufomodulators
- neutomodulators
Etymology of NEUROMODULATORS
The word "neuromodulators" can be broken down into two parts: "neuro" and "modulators".
1. Neuro: The term "neuro" comes from the Greek word "neuron", which means "nerve". It originally referred to the basic units of the nervous system, the nerve cells. Over time, it has been adopted as a prefix in many scientific and medical terms relating to the nervous system.
2. Modulators: The term "modulators" derives from the verb "modulate", which comes from the Latin word "modulatus", meaning "to measure, regulate, or adjust". It refers to the action of modifying or adjusting something, often with the intention of achieving a desired outcome.
Therefore, when combined, "neuromodulators" refers to substances or chemicals that modify or regulate the activity of neurons or nerve cells within the nervous system.
