Catecholamine Neurons

Abstract

Our discussion now shifts to a group of transmitters whose action cannot properly be understood by applying the principles of ionotropic neurotransmitter action discussed in earlier chapters. It is necessary to take into more detailed account some of the principles of metabotropic action referred to briefly in the Introduction to Part II and in Chapter 5. It must be appreciated that only the barest outlines of what may be involved in metabotropic action are yet available. Nevertheless, the principles help to account for the very different anatomical arrangements and overall physiological action of transmitters such as those of the catecholamine family.