Biochemical factors in psychopathology

Human behavior largely depends on the brain and its functions. The brain effect behavior by way of neural messages transmitted through many biochemical substances called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are chemicals released at the synapse (a tiny gap at the terminal button of the axon of a neuron) which enable impulse transmitted to continue until interpretation is given and behavior effected. The neuron synthesizes the chemicals that serve as transmitters. Also the neuron synthesizes other chemicals called neuromodulators (chemicals that possess properties of neurotransmitters and hormones) and transport them to terminals of axon. When impulse (action potential) is generated, the neurotransmitters or modulators are released, molecules of these chemicals attach to receptors of post-synaptic neuron and alter the activity. Thereafter the molecules separate from their receptors and in some instances are converted into inactive chemicals. The presynaptic neuron reabsorb some of the neurotransmitters molecules for recycling.

Just as human beings exhibit different behaviors, so does the brain has many neurotransmitters and receptors. This is because different neurotransmitters control different aspects of behavior. The nervous system which is the medium for transmission of impulses is highly complex therefor it requires many neurotransmitters, synapse and receptors to coordinate its activities concerned with behavior. However an excess or deficit of any activity at any particular type of synapse and receptor may lead to changes in behavior, including abnormal behavior. Research has shown that some chemical abnormalities are among the etiological factors in mental disorders (Psychopathology). Hence, drugs or other treatment that facilitate or block a particular type of synapse may be useful in treating certain behavior abnormalities like Mania Anxiety, schizophrenia, depression, and mental retardation.