Neurotransmitters are super important for how brain cells talk to each other. They act like tiny chemical messengers. Our brains have around 100 billion neurons, and they communicate through trillions of connections called synapses. Neurotransmitters get released into these spaces to send messages.

How It Works:

1. Sending Messages: When a neuron gets activated, it releases neurotransmitters.
2. Receiving Messages: These neurotransmitters stick to special spots called receptors on the next neuron. This can make the next neuron more active or less active.
3. Types of Neurotransmitters:
   • Excitatory: These help send the signal. For example, Glutamate is the most common one and is found in about 70% of synapses. Acetylcholine is another one.
   • Inhibitory: These help calm things down. GABA is a big player here and is involved in about 30% of synapses.

Facts to Know:

• Scientists have found around 50 different neurotransmitters.
• Problems can happen if these messengers aren’t balanced, like in conditions such as depression and schizophrenia. About 17.3 million adults in the U.S. face these issues each year.

Overall, these processes help neurons communicate, which is really important for how we think and behave.