5 Essential Neurotransmitters for Everyday Life

From mental to physical health, these five neurotransmitters keep our bodies moving.

By Allison Futterman
May 10, 2022 5:00 PMMay 11, 2022 4:49 PM
Serotonin
(Credit: Danijela Maksimovic/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that enable signals between nerve cells and target cells. These target cells are found in nerves, muscles and glands. We need neurotransmitters for our brains to regulate a variety of functions. These include appetite, breathing, concentration, digestion, muscle movement and sleep, in addition to others.

There have been more than 60 neurotransmitters identified thus far, but scientists believe there may be more yet to discover. To get a better understanding of neurotransmitters, here are five that are essential to everyday life.

1. Acetylcholine

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2023 Kalmbach Media Co.