Neurotransmitters (VibrantWellness)
The Neurotransmitters test is a test to measure inhibitory, excitatory, and other neurotransmitters, their precursors, and their derivatives to determine imbalances.
Neurotransmitters are chemical molecules that our bodies can't function without. They facilitate chemical signals or messages from one neuron to the next target cell, which can be another nerve cell, a muscle cell, or a gland.
Neurotransmitters are critical to determining mental performance, emotions, pain response, and energy levels.
Because hormones are interconnected with neurotransmitters, an imbalance in adrenal and sex hormones may lead to neurotransmitter imbalances which could feedback negatively and cause hormonal imbalances. Thus, a combination of testing hormone and neurotransmitter levels is recommended to provide the physician with a comprehensive assessment of the hormonal and neurotransmitter dysfunctions, supporting the identification of underlying causes of symptoms.
Biomarkers in this category
9 biomarkers · optimal ranges shown
Epinephrine is commonly known as adrenaline.
Glycine is the simplest amino acid and is classified as non-essential because the body can synthesize it from other compounds. Beyond its structural roles (e.g., collagen and glutathione synthesis), glycine functions as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the spinal cord, brainstem, and retina. Loss of glycinergic inhibition—such as with tetanus toxin, which blocks the release of inhibitory transmitters—can cause spastic paralysis due to unopposed muscle contraction. Glycine also serves as a co-agonist at NMDA receptors, where it is required alongside glutamate for receptor activation.
Homovanillic acid to vanillylmandelic acid ratio
an indicator of epinephrine (adrenaline) conversion
Marker for Neurotoxicity and Inflammation
Plays important roles in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite.
Norepinephrine/Epinephrine Metabolite - (Urine)