Neurochemical
Neurochemical
Neurochemical (pronunciation: /ˌnʊərəʊˈkɛmɪk(ə)l/) refers to any organic substance that participates in neural activity. The term is often used to describe the small molecules that interact with neurons to maintain the function of the nervous system.
Etymology
The term "neurochemical" is derived from the words "neuro" meaning nerve and "chemical" referring to a substance produced by or used in a chemical process.
Definition
A neurochemical is a small organic molecule or peptide that participates in neural activity. This includes neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, and neurohormones. Neurochemicals are produced in the neuron and are used to transmit signals from a neuron to another neuron, muscle, or gland cell.
Types of Neurochemicals
There are several types of neurochemicals, including:
- Neurotransmitters: These are endogenous chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another 'target' neuron, muscle cell, or gland cell.
- Neuromodulators: These are a type of neurochemical that alters the way other substances in the brain send signals.
- Neurohormones: These are a type of hormone that is produced by neurons and secreted into the bloodstream.
Related Terms
- Neurochemistry: The study of neurochemicals, including neurotransmitters and other molecules such as neuro-active drugs that influence neuron function.
- Neurobiology: The study of cells of the nervous system and the organization of these cells into functional circuits that process information and mediate behavior.
- Neuroscience: The scientific study of the nervous system.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Neurochemical
- Wikipedia's article - Neurochemical
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