Neurotransmitter systems in the etiology of major neurological disorders: Emerging insights and therapeutic implications

• Published in: Ageing research reviews Vol. 89; p. 101994
• Main Authors: Nimgampalle, Mallikarjuna, Chakravarthy, Harshini, Sharma, Sapana, Shree, Shruti, Bhat, Anoop Ramachandra, Pradeepkiran, Jangampalli Adi, Devanathan, Vasudharani
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Elsevier B.V 01.08.2023
• Subjects: Acetylcholine; Dopamine; GABA; Glutamate; Neurological disorders; Neurotransmitters; GABA; Neurotransmitters; Acetylcholine; Dopamine; Glutamate; Neurological disorders
• ISSN: 1568-1637; 1872-9649
• DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101994

Neurotransmitters serve as chemical messengers playing a crucial role in information processing throughout the nervous system, and are essential for healthy physiological and behavioural functions in the body. Neurotransmitter systems are classified as cholinergic, glutamatergic, GABAergic, dopaminergic, serotonergic, histaminergic, or aminergic systems, depending on the type of neurotransmitter secreted by the neuron, allowing effector organs to carry out specific functions by sending nerve impulses. Dysregulation of a neurotransmitter system is typically linked to a specific neurological disorder. However, more recent research points to a distinct pathogenic role for each neurotransmitter system in more than one neurological disorder of the central nervous system. In this context, the review provides recently updated information on each neurotransmitter system, including the pathways involved in their biochemical synthesis and regulation, their physiological functions, pathogenic roles in diseases, current diagnostics, new therapeutic targets, and the currently used drugs for associated neurological disorders. Finally, a brief overview of the recent developments in neurotransmitter-based therapeutics for selected neurological disorders is offered, followed by future perspectives in that area of research. •Updated information on mammalian neurotransmitter systems.•Biosynthesis pathways, regulation, and functions of neurotransmitters.•Dysfunction of neurotransmitter systems in CNS diseases.•Recent developments in neurotransmitter-based therapeutics.