The impact of neurotransmitters on physical and mental behavior Neurons within the central and peripheral nervous systems are responsible for all human activity. A neurotransmitter is a chemical substance released from the terminal button of a neuron. Neurotransmitters have an excitatory or inhibitory effect on other nearby neurons. Neurotransmitters are a very important part of the central nervous system (CNS) because they enable communication within neurons and between neurons. The four primary neurotransmitters are acetylcholine, dopamine, GABA and serotonin. Acetylcholine Acetylcholine is the primary neurotransmitter secreted by efferent axons of the central nervous system (Carlson, 2011, p. 99). Acetylcholine is made up of two substances; choline and acetate (Carlson, 2011, p. 100). Choline is a substance that comes from the breakdown of lipids. Acetate is the anion present in vinegar (Carlson, 2011, p. 100). This neurotransmitter is produced in the parietal lobe of the brain and is associated with our alpha brain waves, which control speed (Jordon, 2008, ¶ 23). Acetylcholine acts as a lubricant, keeping neurons moist so energy can pass through them. They are also part of the building blocks of myelin (Jordon, 2008, ¶23). This neurotransmitter makes all muscle movements possible and plays a role in REM sleep (Carlson, 2011, p. 100). Acetylcholine, when levels are balanced, will help a person to be able to think on their feet and be creative, confident and innovative. When a person's acetylcholine levels are balanced, they are also more likely to have better interpersonal relationships (Jordon, 2008, ¶24). When these levels are too high the person can become very paranoid (Jordon, 2008, ¶ 25). Acetyl...... half of the paper...... or be the most important part of the human body. They have a huge responsibility to keep the body as it should. Research has shown that neurotransmitter deficiencies can contribute to many health problems in four categories: physical, personality, memory, and attention problems (Jordon, 2008, ¶8). When we think about keeping our bodies healthy, the main focus is usually on our physical appearance and body, people don't start paying attention to their brains until a problem occurs (Jordon, 2008). It's important to keep our brains healthy too so that the rest of our health doesn't go to waste. Works Cited Carlson, N. (2011). Foundations of behavioral neuroscience (8th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.Jordon, J.. (2008). Evaluation of neurotransmitters. Create vibrant health. Retrieved January 21, 2012, from http://www.createvibranthealth.com/wp/?page_id=102