Serotonin, a key neurotransmitter often dubbed the 'happiness chemical', plays a crucial role in regulating mood. It also participates in sleep, digestion, bone health, and blood clotting. The gut mainly produces serotonin, impacting the brain and body by influencing various physiological processes and emotional states. An imbalance in serotonin levels can significantly affect both mental and physical health....

Quinolinic acid is a metabolite in the kynurenine pathway, which is involved in the metabolism of the amino acid tryptophan. It is known for its role as an excitotoxin in the central nervous system. High levels of quinolinic acid have been associated with conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, and some forms of epilepsy, as well as in certain psychiatric disorders like depression....

Noradrenaline, also known as norepinephrine, is both a hormone and neurotransmitter. It plays a crucial role in the body's fight-or-flight response, similar to adrenaline, but also has a significant impact on mood regulation. Noradrenaline helps increase alertness, arousal, and speeds up reaction time. It also helps regulate blood pressure by causing blood vessels to constrict....

The noradrenaline (norepinephrine) to adrenaline (epinephrine) ratio refers to the relative levels of these two hormones in the body, both of which are involved in the fight-or-flight response. Typically, the body produces more noradrenaline than adrenaline, but this ratio can vary depending on factors like stress and physical activity....

Kynurenic acid is a metabolite produced in the kynurenine pathway, which is involved in the metabolism of the amino acid tryptophan. It is known for its role in the nervous system, where it acts as a neuroprotective agent. It's significant in neurological and psychiatric research, as imbalances are linked to conditions like schizophrenia and depression....

Glutamate is a key excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, playing a vital role in cognitive functions like learning and memory. It's crucial for brain development and synaptic plasticity. However, an excess of glutamate can lead to neuronal overstimulation, potentially causing neurotoxicity. This balance makes glutamate essential for normal brain function but also implicates it in various neurological disorders....

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a key inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, crucial for reducing neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system. It plays a significant role in regulating mood, anxiety, and sleep. GABA helps promote relaxation and calmness, balancing the action of excitatory neurotransmitters like glutamate. Proper GABA function is essential for mental and emotional well-being....

Dopamine is a vital neurotransmitter in the brain, known as the 'feel-good' chemical. It plays a crucial role in regulating mood, motivation, and pleasure. Dopamine also affects movement, memory, and focus. Imbalances in dopamine levels can significantly impact mental health, influencing conditions like depression, anxiety, and Parkinson's disease....

Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is a hormone and neurotransmitter produced by the adrenal glands. It plays a key role in the body's fight-or-flight response, rapidly preparing the body for action in high-stress situations. Adrenaline increases heart rate, expands air passages, and boosts energy production, making it crucial for survival mechanisms....