Intro to The Brain

NEUROTRANSMITTER

What is a Neurotransmitter?

The chemicals that run the brain are called neurotransmitters.They carry information from one neuron to another.

Where are Neurotransmitters located in the brain?

Neurotransmitters are chemicals that live inside brain cells (neurons). They are stored in sacks just by the synapse at the end of the neuron’s axon.

How do Neurotransmitters move across the synapse?

Electrical charges from the cell body free chemicals and propel them across the synapse. Special receptors at the end of dendrites form to accept certain neurotransmitters like lock and key.

Here is a diagram of neurotransmitter molecule moving across the synapse.

Adult humans have 100 billion neurons, each capable of making thousands of connections

The chemicals transmitted across synapses of neurons form larger neural networks (bundles) that are distributed to various areas of the brain depending upon which chemical bundles they are. Different neurotransmitters affect brain activity in different ways.

Important Neurotransmitters

Serotonin

Aids in the smooth transmission of messages in the brain and the body. Plays large role in regulation of mood, appetite, memory and learning. A lack of serotonin may result in low self-esteem, depression and/or aggression.

Dopamine

Helps information flow to higher levels in the brain. Plays key role in regulating pain & pleasure.

Melatonin

Related to wake and sleep cycles.

Epinephrine

Gets the body moving in situations that require instant action, such as those involving fear or danger.

Acetylcholine

Enhances memory (it is the chemical responsible for many dreams)

Endorphin (neuropeptide)

The body’s natural pain killer (an abundance of endorphin may create a feeling of euphoria)

Cortisol (neuropeptide)

A chemical released when we are under stress - at high levels, it can be dangerous because it interrupts transmission of messages from neuron to neuron

Research on Behavior & Neurotransmitters

Research on human behaviors influenced by serotonin, dopamine, endorphin, and epinephrine. Our environment can influence the release of these chemicals in our brains.

Glenn, 1990

The brain may release serotonin, dopamine and endorphine as a result of exercise, an affirming touch or smile, or a meaningful relationship.

Sylwester 1997c

The single most dynamic influence on the brain’s chemistry may be positive feedback. Positive feedback, which comes in may different forms, is essential for the development of good self-concept and healthy self-esteem.

Jensen, 1996

Feeling a part of a group or team effort will increase the release of ‘feel good’ chemicals such as endorphin and dopamine.

Weinberger, 1998

Experiencing music in its many forms, from listening to performing, stimulates the release of dopamine and serotonin.

Research on Behavior & Neurotransmitters

Generally, we know that exercise increases endorphin release in the brain. We may want to expand our thinking about exercise to include drama and dance as well as P.E.

Suggestions for Our Classrooms & Overall School Environments

• Play calming music, such as selections from the Baroque era.
• Let students know that it’s okay to make mistakes.
• Allow teamwork and social learning to help reduce tension and build self-esteem.
• Celebrate learning and let students know that we understand they have feelings.
• Use movements like stretching or role-playing to add fun to learning.
• Provide an outlet for expression, such as journal writing, dance, drawing, etc.