WebMD: Better Information. Better Health.
  • Bookmark This Page
  • Site Map
  • Sign up for WebMD Newsletters

Medical Dictionary

neurotransmitter

Pronunciation (nū′rō-trans′mit-ĕr)
Font Size
A
A
A
  1. Any specific chemical agent (including acetylcholine, five amines, four amino acids, two purines, and more than 28 peptides) released by a presynaptic cell, on excitation, that crosses the synapse to stimulate or inhibit the postsynaptic cell. More than one may be released at any given synapse. The neurotransmitters released by presynaptic cells may modulate transmitter release from presynaptic cells. Nitric oxide may be a retrograde neurotransmitter, released from postsynaptic cells, to act on presynaptic cells.

[neuro- + L. transmitto, to send across]

WebMD Medical Reference from "Stedman's Medical Dictionary"

The publisher is not responsible (as a matter of product liability, negligence or otherwise) for any injury resulting from any material contained herein. This publication contains information relating to general principles of medical care which should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients. Manufacturers’ product information and package inserts should be reviewed for current information, including contraindications, dosages and precautions.
webMD Video

click to expand/contract  Exercise and Your Brain

Exercise can not only reshape your body and make you physically fit, it may also cause positive changes to your brain.

Watch Video

click to expand/contract  Cellulite Treatment with Heat

click to expand/contract  Strengthen Your Mom Muscles

click to expand/contract  Rejuvenating Aging Faces

click to expand/contract  No Guilt Mother's Day

Most Popular Stories