neurotransmitter

[ noor-oh-trans-mit-er, -tranz-, nyoor- ]

noun

1. any of several chemical substances, as epinephrine or acetylcholine, that transmit nerve impulses across a synapse to a postsynaptic element, as another nerve, muscle, or gland.

neurotransmitter

/ ˌnjʊərəʊtrænzˈmɪtə /

noun

1. a chemical by which a nerve cell communicates with another nerve cell or with a muscle

neurotransmitter

/ nr′ō-trănz′mĭt-ər /

1. A chemical substance that is produced and secreted by a neuron and then diffuses across a synapse to cause excitation or inhibition of another neuron. Acetylcholine, norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin are examples of neurotransmitters.

neurotransmitter

1. Any one of a number of chemicals that are used to transmit nerve signals across a synapse . They are sprayed from the end of the “upstream” nerve cell and absorbed by receptors in the “downstream” cell.

Notes

Drugs like Prozac and alcohol affect the emission and reception of neurotransmitters.

Word History and Origins

Origin of neurotransmitter¹

First recorded in 1960–65; neuro- + transmitter

Example Sentences

In turn, an increase in calcium triggers the release of signalling molecules called neurotransmitters.

From Science Daily

A healthy microbiome normally produces neurotransmitters and metabolites, such as serotonin and butyrate, that influence mood and cognitive performance.

From Salon

And then, once the threat is dealt with, your body releases the neurotransmitter dopamine, which provides sensations of pleasure and relief.

From Salon

“When you walk into familiar places, some of those neurotransmitters start to get released,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times

Glutamate is the most abundant neurotransmitter in the nervous system.

From BBC