Explin the communication process of neurons in the brain. List some common neurotransmitters and describe their effect on behavior.

http://www.mind.ilstu.edu/curriculum/neurons_intro/neurons_intro.php

http://www.teacherbridge.org/public/bhs/teachers/Lhawkins/H:+AP+Human+Systems+2004-2005+AP+Chapter+48+Common+Neurotransmitters+and+some+of+their+functions.htm

it not only affects the human mind, but the body as well

The communication process of neurons in the brain can be described as follows:

1. Transmission of Signals: Neurons communicate through electrical and chemical signals. Electrical signals, known as action potentials, travel from the dendrites (the receiving end of the neuron) to the axon (the transmitting end). These electrical signals trigger the release of neurotransmitters.

2. Release of Neurotransmitters: Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that allow neurons to communicate with each other. When an action potential reaches the axon terminal, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters into the synapse (the tiny space between two neurons).

3. Binding to Receptors: Neurotransmitters diffuse across the synapse and bind to specific receptors on the receiving neuron. Receptors are like locks, and neurotransmitters are like keys that fit into the locks. When a neurotransmitter binds to its specific receptor, it triggers a response in the receiving neuron.

4. Postsynaptic Potential: The binding of neurotransmitters to receptors on the receiving neuron can either excite or inhibit it. Excitatory neurotransmitters increase the likelihood of the receiving neuron firing an action potential, while inhibitory neurotransmitters decrease the likelihood.

5. Integration of Signals: The receiving neuron receives inputs from multiple neurons, so it integrates the excitatory and inhibitory signals. If the excitatory signals outweigh the inhibitory signals, the receiving neuron is more likely to generate an action potential.

Some common neurotransmitters in the brain include:

1. Dopamine: Dopamine is involved in motivation, reward, and pleasure. It plays a key role in movement, learning, attention, and mood regulation. Imbalances in dopamine levels have been associated with conditions like Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia.

2. Serotonin: Serotonin is important for mood regulation, sleep, appetite, and social behavior. Low serotonin levels have been linked to depression, anxiety, and certain eating disorders.

3. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid): GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. It helps to regulate neuronal excitability and anxiety. Drugs that enhance GABA activity, such as benzodiazepines, can have sedative and anxiolytic effects.

4. Glutamate: Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. It is involved in learning, memory, and synaptic plasticity. Too much glutamate activity has been associated with conditions like epilepsy and neurodegenerative disorders.

These neurotransmitters, along with many others, play a crucial role in shaping behavior by modulating the activity of neurons and influencing the overall functioning of the brain.