What are the primary neurotransmitters involved in the central nervous system?

The correct answer highlights the primary neurotransmitters widely recognized for their significant roles in the central nervous system. Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter, crucial for synaptic transmission and neural plasticity. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) serves as the chief inhibitory neurotransmitter, helping to regulate excitability throughout the nervous system and maintain balance between excitatory and inhibitory signals.

Dopamine plays a pivotal role in reward, motivation, and motor control and is also implicated in several neuropsychiatric disorders. Serotonin is involved in mood regulation, cognition, and numerous bodily functions, including the sleep-wake cycle and appetite control. Norepinephrine, which is both a neurotransmitter and a hormone, influences attention, response actions, and arousal states.

The combination of these neurotransmitters covers a wide array of functions and interactions that are critical for the normal operational health of the central nervous system. The selection accurately reflects the complexity and diversity of neurotransmitters that help govern essential physiological responses and behavior.