What is the difference between neurotransmitter and neurohormone?

Definitions

neurotransmitter

- Referring to chemicals that transmit signals between neurons in the brain and nervous system.

- Describing a substance that is released from the axon of a neuron and binds to receptors on another neuron.

- Talking about a molecule that plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions such as movement, mood, and cognition.

neurohormone

- Describing a chemical messenger that is produced by neurons and released into the bloodstream.

- Referring to a substance that acts like both a hormone and a neurotransmitter.

- Talking about a molecule that regulates physiological processes such as growth, metabolism, and stress response.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both are chemical messengers that play a role in regulating bodily functions.
• 2. Both are produced by neurons in the brain and nervous system.
• 3. Both can affect the activity of other neurons and cells in the body.
• 4. Both can have an impact on mood, behavior, and cognition.
• 5. Both can be targeted by drugs or medications for therapeutic purposes.

What is the difference?

• 1. Location: Neurotransmitters are released locally at the synapse, while neurohormones are released into the bloodstream and can travel to distant parts of the body.
• 2. Mode of action: Neurotransmitters act on adjacent neurons or cells, while neurohormones act on distant target cells through the bloodstream.
• 3. Speed: Neurotransmitters act quickly and have rapid effects, while neurohormones act more slowly and have longer-lasting effects.
• 4. Quantity: Neurotransmitters are released in small amounts, while neurohormones are released in larger quantities.
• 5. Function: Neurotransmitters primarily regulate communication between neurons, while neurohormones primarily regulate physiological processes throughout the body.

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Remember this!

Neurotransmitter and neurohormone are both chemical messengers produced by neurons in the brain and nervous system. However, the main difference between them is their mode of action and location. Neurotransmitters act locally at the synapse and regulate communication between neurons, while neurohormones act on distant target cells through the bloodstream and regulate physiological processes throughout the body.