Neurotransmitter transporter

Neurotransmitter Transporter

A Neurotransmitter Transporter (pronounced: noor-oh-trans-mit-er trans-por-ter) is a specialized protein that facilitates the reuptake of neurotransmitters from the synaptic cleft, which is the space between neurons. This process is essential for the termination of synaptic transmission.

Etymology

The term "Neurotransmitter Transporter" is derived from the Greek words "neuron" meaning nerve, "transmitter" referring to the substance that transmits nerve impulses, and "transporter" indicating the function of moving or carrying something from one place to another.

Function

Neurotransmitter transporters are crucial for maintaining homeostasis in the nervous system by removing excess neurotransmitters from the synaptic cleft and recycling them for future use. They are located primarily on the presynaptic neuron and glial cells.

Types

There are several types of neurotransmitter transporters, each specific to a certain type of neurotransmitter. These include:

• Serotonin transporter (SERT)
• Dopamine transporter (DAT)
• Norepinephrine transporter (NET)
• GABA transporter (GAT)
• Glutamate transporter (GLT)

Related Terms

• Neuron
• Synapse
• Neurotransmitter
• Protein
• Nervous system
• Serotonin
• Dopamine
• Norepinephrine
• GABA
• Glutamate

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Neurotransmitter transporter
• Wikipedia's article - Neurotransmitter transporter

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