 Graphic by John Sundsten, PH.D |
Process |
Brain Chemicals live inside brain cells known as neurons whose branches connect and communicate with other cells. The chemicals are stored in sacks located at the end of a neuron branch, the site of the synapse, the space where one neuron sends it's message to the next. An electrical charge frees chemicals from their holding tanks making their way across the synapse to the connecting neuron. Neurons form billions of communication lines with other neurons. Neurons serves as the basis of all brain activity.
When a neuron fires an electrical impulse it travels down a fiber called the axon until it reaches the end of its line where the chemical molecules are stored. The electrical blast starts the chemical transmissions. The molecules that cross the synapse bombard the receiving neuron which has special receptors set up to bind with them.
Molecules that travel through neurons are called neurotransmitters which have been said to modify and shape human behavior.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI) regulate the neurochemical serotonin by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin thus depleting the supply by blocking the receptor. Monoamine oxidase is an enzyme that is found in many parts of the body. In the brain, monoamine oxidase destroys neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and serotonin. MAOI inhibitors block the breakdown of those neurotransmitters by limiting the activity of monoamine oxidase.