How the Brain Works Signal substances
How the Brain Works
Signal substances in the brain
- Glutamate: An important signal substance for information intake, processing, and memory storage. It is released from the nerve cell presynaptic terminal and affects receptors on the receiving nerve cell, allowing the signal to pass to the next nerve cell. Astrocytes, whose processes surround the synapses, clear glutamate after it has exerted its effect, allowing new signals to pass.
- Other Signaling Agents: GABA, dopamine, histamine, adrenaline, norepinephrine, acetylcholine, and serotonin, along with numerous peptides, hormones, and cytokines, are crucial for the nervous system’s functioning.