What are chemicals released from neurons called?

The correct answer is neurotransmitters. These are specific chemicals that are released by neurons to communicate with other neurons, muscle cells, or gland cells. When an electrical signal reaches the end of a neuron, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft. These chemicals then bind to receptors on the surface of the target cells, initiating a response that can either stimulate or inhibit the activity of that cell.

Neurotransmitters play a crucial role in various physiological functions, including mood regulation, cognition, and motor control. Examples of well-known neurotransmitters include serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine, each playing different roles in the body.

While hormones are also important signaling molecules in the body, they are typically released into the bloodstream by glands and travel to distant sites to exert their effects, which is different from the localized, immediate action of neurotransmitters. Endorphins are specific types of neurotransmitters that are involved in pain relief and pleasure, but they are still classified under the broader category of neurotransmitters, rather than being a distinct type of substance. Enzymes, on the other hand, are proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions but do not function in the communication process between neurons.