What is the primary role of neurotransmitters?

The primary role of neurotransmitters is to transmit signals across synapses. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers released from the presynaptic neuron that travel across the synaptic cleft to bind to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron. This binding can initiate a response in the receiving neuron, effectively allowing communication within the nervous system. They play a crucial role in various functions, including mood regulation, cognition, and muscle control, depending on the specific neurotransmitter and the receptors involved.

While neurotransmitters can influence heart rate, hormone secretion, and muscle contraction, these actions are secondary effects resulting from the primary function of signal transmission. For example, neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine can stimulate muscle contraction, and norepinephrine can affect heart rate, but fundamentally their main role is facilitating communication between neurons.