What is the main role of neurotransmitters?

The main role of neurotransmitters is to transmit signals across a synapse. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that facilitate communication between neurons. When an electrical impulse reaches the end of a neuron (the presynaptic neuron), neurotransmitters are released into the synaptic cleft, which is the small gap between neurons. These chemicals then bind to specific receptors on the surface of the neighboring neuron (the postsynaptic neuron), leading to various physiological responses or further transmission of the signal.

This process is crucial for numerous functions within the nervous system, including mood regulation, motor control, and sensory perception. The effectiveness of neurotransmission can greatly affect overall brain function and mental health.

Insulating nerve cells, generating electrical impulses, and protecting neurons are important functions associated with the structure and role of neurons, but they do not capture the core function of neurotransmitters in the process of signal transmission within the nervous system.