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Introduction to Neurotransmitters Video
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Video at a Glance
- The two basic categories of neurotransmitters are small molecules and neuropeptides/proteins.
- The most significant small molecule is acetylcholine, and it’s typically synthesized in the bouton of the presynaptic terminal.
- Small molecules are typically metabolized in the synapse, released quickly, and broken down quickly.
- Neuropeptides/proteins are larger molecules that are harder to synthesize, and they are typically synthesized in the soma and then transported to the bouton.
- Neuropeptides/proteins tend to be either inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (IPSP) or excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSP).
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