Discuss what are neurotransmitters, and how do they function in neural communication?

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals across a chemical synapse, from one neuron (nerve cell) to another 'target' neuron, muscle cell, or gland cell. They play a major role in everyday life and functioning.

Here's how they function in neural communication:

1. Synthesis and Storage: Neurotransmitters are synthesized in the neuron from precursors under the influence of specific enzymes. They are then stored in vesicles, which are small sacs within the neuron.

2. Release: When an electrical signal, known as an action potential, reaches the end of the neuron (the presynaptic terminal), it triggers the release of the neurotransmitters from the vesicles into the synapse. The synapse is the tiny gap between neurons.

3. Binding to Receptors: The neurotransmitters cross the synapse and bind to specific receptors on the receiving neuron (the postsynaptic neuron). This binding can either stimulate or inhibit the receiving neuron. If the signal is strong enough, the action potential continues to the next neuron, and the message is carried on.

4. Termination: The effect of the neurotransmitter is terminated in one of three ways: reuptake (the neurotransmitter is taken back into the neuron that released it), degradation (enzymes break down the neurotransmitter in the synapse), or diffusion (the neurotransmitter drifts away from the synapse).

Different neurotransmitters have different effects on the body. For example, dopamine is associated with pleasure and reward, serotonin affects mood, and acetylcholine is involved in muscle movement.