Excitatory neurotransmitters are important for how our brain talks to itself. They help create excitement that leads to action. Here's how they work:
Making Neurons Active: When excitatory neurotransmitters, like glutamate, attach to special spots on the next neuron, they let in sodium ions (which are tiny charged particles). This makes the inside of the neuron more positive.
Starting a Signal: If the positive change is strong enough, it can set off an action potential. Think of it like a row of dominoes—when one neuron fires, it can make the next one fire too.
Helping Neurons Communicate: This whole process helps neurons send signals quickly to each other. It's super important for things like learning and memory. It helps make the connections between neurons stronger.
Keeping a Healthy Balance: Excitatory signals don’t work alone. There are also inhibitory neurotransmitters, like GABA, that help calm things down. They make sure our brain doesn't get too excited or overwhelmed.
In short, excitatory neurotransmitters are like pushing the gas pedal in our brain, helping us take action and learn better.
Excitatory neurotransmitters are important for how our brain talks to itself. They help create excitement that leads to action. Here's how they work:
Making Neurons Active: When excitatory neurotransmitters, like glutamate, attach to special spots on the next neuron, they let in sodium ions (which are tiny charged particles). This makes the inside of the neuron more positive.
Starting a Signal: If the positive change is strong enough, it can set off an action potential. Think of it like a row of dominoes—when one neuron fires, it can make the next one fire too.
Helping Neurons Communicate: This whole process helps neurons send signals quickly to each other. It's super important for things like learning and memory. It helps make the connections between neurons stronger.
Keeping a Healthy Balance: Excitatory signals don’t work alone. There are also inhibitory neurotransmitters, like GABA, that help calm things down. They make sure our brain doesn't get too excited or overwhelmed.
In short, excitatory neurotransmitters are like pushing the gas pedal in our brain, helping us take action and learn better.