serotonin

Neurotransmitter involved in processing

of information and coordination of movement,

as well as inhibition andrestraint. It also assists

in the regulation of eating, sexual,

and aggressive behaviors, all of which may be

involved in different psychological disorders.

Its interaction withdopamine is implicated

in schizophrenia.

norepinephrine

(noradrenaline)

Neurotransmitter active in the central

and peripheral nervous systems, controlling

heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration,

among other functions. Because of its 

role in the body's alarm reaction, it may also

contribute generally and indirectly to panic

attacks and other disorders.

Also known as noradrenaline.

dopamine

Neurotransmitter whose generalized function is to

activate other neurotransmitters and to aid in

exploratory and pleasure-seeking behaviors

(thus balancing serotonin). A relative excess of

dopamine is implicated in schizophrenia

(although contradictory evidence suggests that the

connection is not simple), and its deficit

is involved in Parkinson's disease.

cognitive science

Field of study that examines how humans

and otheranimals acquire, process, store, and

retrieve information.

epigenetics

The study of factors other than inherited DNA

sequence such as new learning or stress, that alter

the phenotypic expression of genes.