Germano 1 Micah Germano Mrs. Rausch 5/24/12 Per.

6 Chemicals and the Brain

The human brain is the most complex object known to man. For centuries, its inner workings were considered completely inscrutable, and the brain has been taken for granted as a relatively unimportant piece of the human body. Within the last several decades, advances in technology have allowed a closer examination of this incredible organ, and more importantly, how it works. Only recently has humanity discovered that thoughts, desires, and feelings are the result of a complex interplay between energy and particles, of constant chemical reactions that occur at a truly mind-boggling rate. The brain's function is based on the interactions between various chemicals, which can affect mood, states of consciousness, and mental disorders. Normal brain function is achieved by chemical and electric reactions within the brain. Electrically excitable cells called neurons send messages between each other, across gaps called synapses. (Chudler) Neurotransmitters are chemicals that carry electrical signals across the synapses, from presynaptic nerve terminals to receptors at the next neuron. (Chudler) The main types of neurotransmitters are amino acids, peptides, and monoamines, along with acetylcholine. (Best) Different neurotransmitters have different functions. Some, like glutamic acid, act as exciters, while others, such as GABA, act as inhibitors. (Best) In many cases, the function of a neurotransmitter is determined by the characteristics of the receptor that is receiving it. (Best) Not all receptors of a particular neurotransmitter act the same, as different subtypes of receptors can produce different effects. (The Scientific American 339) An example of a neurotransmitter and how it outside chemicals can interact with it can be observed in the relationship between the

Germano 2 amino acid glycine and a poisonous chemical called strychnine. Glycine makes a receptor more able to accept a Cl^- ion, and its receptors are found in the spinal cord. Strychnine interrupts this process by bonding to the glycine receptor without facilitating the arrival of the Cl^-, thereby causing convulsions and suffocation. (Best) Glutamate and its counterpart GABA are the brains primary neurotransmitters, with the former working as an exciter and the latter working as an inhibitor. (Best) Glutamate has been a subject of worldwide study for some time, as it is the most common excitatory transmitter throughout complex life forms, and is believed to be one of the main components in the process of learning and thought. (Danbolt) The function of the brain is achieved through electrical impulses between synapses, and this communication is facilitated by chemicals known as neurotransmitters. Various natural and artificial chemicals can also influence states of consciousness and emotions. For example, a chemical that works as a natural sleep inducer is melatonin, which is heavily influenced by the circadian cycle. (Best) Adenosine is another compound that has effects that characterize tiredness- it is side product of ATP use which inhibits neural activity. (Best) As a counterpoint, caffeine increases neural activity by blocking adenosine receptors, increasing the brain's level of alertness and activity. (Best) Another chemical that can alter a person's mental state is ethanol, which causes an immediate loss in logical reasoning abilities and hand eye coordination.(Best) Other natural brain chemicals can influence emotional states and feelings. One such chemical is dopamine, a neurotransmitter. Dopamine is released by the brain in anticipation for a repeated enjoyable activity, and if the activity remains enjoyable, the brain will continue to release the chemical, thereby reinforcing habits. (Tammet 267-92) Neurotransmitters called endorphins create similar feelings of content and happiness. ("AllPsych

Germano 3 Online") The brain and its everyday activities are highly susceptible to the actions of natural and artificial chemicals. The actions of neurotransmitters and other chemicals are also heavily involved with mental disorders. Many disorders are associated with the deficiency of certain neurotransmitters. For instance, chemicals like epinephrine and serotonin can affect a persons overall mood. Depression is linked with a deficit in these chemicals, and most antidepressants work by regulating the flow of the neurotransmitters. (The Scientific American 339) A deficiency in GABA has been linked to anxiety disorders, while a lack of acetylcholine can be characterized by dementia. (Allpsych Online) Not all mental disorders result from a lack of neurotransmitters however, as certain diseases are caused by too much exposure to certain neurochemicals. For instance, excess norepinephrine and dopamine are believed to cause schizophrenia, and overexposure to acetylcholine can cause depression. (Allpsych Online) It is clear that several mental disorders are the result of chemical imbalances, but other ailments manifest when the actions of certain neurotransmitters are interrupted. Rather than a hormonal or chemical imbalance, the effects of Alzheimers disease are thought to result from the pre or post synaptic disruption of excitatory amino acids, like glutamate. (Greenamyre, Young) Another explanation for Alzheimers is the discovery of senile plaques, fragments of protein that develop in the parts of the brain that deal with reasoning, memory, and judgement at the onset of old age. These amyloid beta-protein structures occur in huge numbers, and their short chains of amino acids cause the degeneration of brain tissue. (The Scientific American 339) Many common mental disorders are the result of the imbalance and disruption of chemicals in the brain.

Germano 4 The brain is the most complex object known to man, and holds many mysteries for the burgeoning science of neurochemistry. Thankfully, science marches on, and has reached the astounding technological power that is necessary to find the answers. As our knowledge grows, we can finally begin to understand the mechanics of this wonderfully complicated machine. Its study will eventually allow humanity to examine the science behind the self, and to examine the chemistry that has brought man its dreams.