Monoamínérgicas

Monoamínérgicas refers to a class of neurotransmitters that share a common structural feature: a single amino group. These monoamine neurotransmitters are synthesized from amino acids and play crucial roles in regulating a wide range of physiological and psychological processes. The major monoamine neurotransmitters include dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, serotonin, and histamine.

Dopamine is involved in reward, motivation, pleasure, motor control, and executive functions. Imbalances in dopamine pathways are implicated in conditions like Parkinson's disease and addiction. Norepinephrine, also known as noradrenaline, is a key player in the body's stress response, alertness, attention, and mood. Epinephrine, or adrenaline, is primarily released by the adrenal glands during stress and is responsible for the "fight-or-flight" response. Serotonin is widely known for its influence on mood, sleep, appetite, and digestion. Low levels of serotonin are often associated with depression. Histamine acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain, regulating sleep-wake cycles, appetite, and learning.

The synthesis, release, and reuptake of monoamines are tightly regulated to maintain proper neuronal signaling. Drugs that target monoaminergic systems, such as antidepressants and stimulants, are widely used to treat various neurological and psychiatric disorders. Understanding the functions and dysfunctions of monoaminergic neurotransmission is fundamental to neuroscience and psychopharmacology.