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What would cause neurotransmitters to not work as they should?
Posted May 3, 2023
Cell SignalingCellular ProcessesEnzymes
Answer
Several things can go wrong and cause neurotransmitters to not work as they should. Some of the prominent causes include: 
  • Over or under production of one or more neurotransmitters
  • Too much or too little of one or more neurotransmitters are released
  • Faulty functioning of the receptor on the receiver cell, which hampers the ability of the normal-functioning neurotransmitter to effectively transmit the signal 
  • The synaptic cleft may be inflamed or damage, hampering the cell receptor’s ability to take up enough neurotransmitter
  • Enzymes obstruct the neurotransmitters’ path, allowing only a few to reach their target cell
  • Neurotransmitters are reabsorbed too rapidly
Some of the underlying factors that cause neurotransmitters to malfunction may include: 
  • Prolonged periods of stress
  • Genetic factors
  • Consistently poor diet
  • Hormonal changes
  • Faulty metabolism
  • Intake of toxic substances such drug use, heavy metals, and pesticides
  • Certain prescription drugs
  • Alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine
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