Can We Control "Happy Chemicals"?
- Madeleine Pachella
- Apr 1, 2024
- 1 min read
The famous neurochemical dopamine. Many refer to it as the "happy chemical", but very few actually know its function. This neurotransmitter, in short, enables the feeling of satisfaction and motivation, but also plays a big role in memory, mood, sleep, learning, etc (HealthDirect, 2024). In a study done by During et al., in 1989, intracerebral microdialysis (which enables the monitoring of neurotransmitters and other molecules in the cerebral fluid/region) was used to test the long-term release of dopamine. It was found that the release of dopamine was steady throughout the two month period this experiment was conducted. The significance? Regulating the release of dopamine is crucial to treating neurological diseases affected by the imbalance of this neurotransmitter, including Parkinson's Disease, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Addictions, and Schizophrenia. With the correct regulation, the root causes to these disorders could be properly treated, and improve the lives of many.
Click on the link below to learn more about the specific processes behind this incredible experiment on dopamine regulation!
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