Journal of Clinical and Bioanalytical Chemistry

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.
Reach Us +44-1518-081136

Commentary - Journal of Clinical and Bioanalytical Chemistry (2023) Volume 7, Issue 3

Hormones and mental health: Exploring the link between neurotransmitters and mood disorders.

Yuchan Zhang*

Institute of Life Science, Laboratory of Tissue and Cell Biology, Lab Teaching & Management Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China

Corresponding Author:
Yuchan Zhang
Institute of Life Science
Laboratory of Tissue and Cell Biology
Lab Teaching & Management Center
Chongqing Medical University
Chongqing, China
E-mail: zhangyc@cqmu.edu.cn

Received: 22-May-2023, Manuscript No. AACBC-22-102269; Editor assigned: 23-May-2023, PreQC No. AACBC-22-102269(PQ); Reviewed: 05-Jun-2023, QC No. AACBC-22-102269; Revised: 12-Jun-2023, Manuscript No. AACBC-22-102269(R); Published: 19-Jun-2023, DOI:10.35841/aacbc-7.3.148

Citation: Zhang Y. Hormones and mental health: Exploring the link between neurotransmitters and mood disorders. J Clin Bioanal Chem. 2023;7(3):148

Visit for more related articles at Journal of Clinical and Bioanalytical Chemistry

The intricate interplay between hormones and mental health has long fascinated researchers and healthcare professionals. Hormones, chemical messengers produced by various glands in the body, play a crucial role in regulating physiological processes, including mood, emotions, and cognitive function. In this article, we delve into the connection between hormones and mental health, with a focus on neurotransmitters, and explore how imbalances can contribute to the development of mood disorders [1].

Neurotransmitters are specialized chemicals that transmit signals between nerve cells (neurons) in the brain. They regulate various aspects of brain function, including mood, cognition, and behavior. Some key neurotransmitters involved in mental health are serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and gammaaminobutyric acid (GABA). Serotonin, often referred to as the "feel-good" neurotransmitter, plays a significant role in mood regulation. Imbalances in serotonin levels have been linked to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Decreased serotonin levels are associated with depressive symptoms, while medications that increase serotonin availability, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are commonly prescribed for treating depression [2].

Dopamine is associated with motivation, reward, and pleasure. It plays a crucial role in the brain's reward pathways, influencing feelings of motivation, satisfaction, and happiness. Dysregulation of dopamine transmission has been implicated in mood disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction. Medications targeting dopamine receptors are often used in the treatment of these conditions. Norepinephrine, a stress hormone and neurotransmitter, is involved in the body's stress response and the regulation of mood. It helps prepare the body for perceived threats, increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and alertness. Imbalances in norepinephrine have been associated with mood disorders, including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) [3].

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps regulate neuronal excitability and anxiety. Low levels of GABA are associated with anxiety disorders, as reduced GABA activity can lead to increased neuronal excitability and heightened anxiety. Medications that enhance GABAergic transmission, such as benzodiazepines, are used to manage anxiety disorders. Hormonal imbalances can also contribute to mood disorders. For example, the thyroid hormone plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and brain function. Hypothyroidism, characterized by low thyroid hormone levels, is associated with symptoms such as depression, fatigue, and cognitive impairment. Similarly, hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause can influence mood and contribute to mood disorders in some individuals [4].

Stress, both acute and chronic, can have profound effects on hormone levels and mental health. The stress hormone cortisol, released by the adrenal glands in response to stress, helps the body cope with challenges. However, chronic stress can dysregulate cortisol production, leading to imbalances that contribute to mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. Understanding the intricate relationship between hormones, neurotransmitters, and mental health has important treatment implications. Medications targeting neurotransmitter systems, such as SSRIs, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and benzodiazepines, are commonly used to manage mood disorders [5].

References

  1. Thormann W, Zhang CX, Schmutz A. Capillary electrophoresis for drug analysis in body fluids. Therapeutic drug monitoring. 1996;18(4):506-20.

    2. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  2. Stalcup AM, Agyei NM. Heparin: a chiral mobile-phase additive for capillary zone electrophoresis. Analytical chemistry. 1994;66(19):3054-9.

    3. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  3. Soichot M, Mégarbane B, Houzé P, et al. Development, validation and clinical application of a LC-MS/MS method for the simultaneous quantification of hydroxychloroquine and its active metabolites in human whole blood. Journal of pharmaceutical and biomedical analysis. 2014;100:131-7.

    4. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  4. Tett SE, Cutler DJ, Day RO, et al. Bioavailability of hydroxychloroquine tablets in healthy volunteers. British journal of clinical pharmacology. 1989;27(6):771-9.

    5. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  5. Somer M, Kallio J, Pesonen U, et al. Influence of hydroxychloroquine on the bioavailability of oral metoprolol. British journal of clinical pharmacology. 2000;49(6):549-54.

    6. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

Get the App