Brainstorms September 30, 1999

Molecular Neurobiology for Practicing Psychiatrists, Part 1: Overview of Gene Activation by Neurotransmitters

Stephen M. Stahl

J Clin Psychiatry 1999;60(9):572-573

Article Abstract

This feature begins the first of a series of articles on molecular neurobiology for the practicing psychiatrist. Shown here is the "visual vocabulary" for each of the critical elements in the activation of neuronal genes by neurotransmitters. 1 Subsequent lessons will demonstrate how each element of this visual vocabulary relates to the others, resulting ultimately in the expression of genes that regulate neuronal functioning in the target neuron.