NEUROTRANSMITTERS IN THE BRAIN

Number of neurotransmitters Neurotransmitters are chemicals

capable of transmitting a signal from the pre-synaptic to the post synaptic neurone

Over 100 different neurotransmitters have been identified

Sympathetic and parasympathetic neurosystems Sympathetic system known as ‘fight

or flight’ in response to stressful situations

Parasympathetic system is known as ‘feed or breed’- relaxed

But both systems always active and controlled by autonomic (involuntary) nervous system

Parkinson’s disease

Occurs due to a deficiency of dopamine as a result of the death of dopamine producing cells

Initially most symptoms are physical and include tremor, slow movements and stiffness of muscles

Later psychological conditions can also be triggered by the disease including depression, insomnia and memory problems

Treatments for Parkinson’s There is no cure for Parkinson’s and

so all treatments focus on relieving symptoms and reducing the onset of the disease

Examples include physiotherapy to reduce muscle stiffness

Speech therapy to improve speech and swallowing

Depression

Defined as a persistent low mood and loss of enthusiasm for life

Symptoms include disturbed sleep, poor concentration and low self worth

Theory that it is a result of a deficiency of monoamine neurotransmitters including serotonin in the synaptic cleft

Common treatment selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or cognitive behavioural therapy

SSRI mechanism of action