Neurotransmitter Location Functions

Acetylcholine
Norepinephrine
Adenosine
triphosphate
Serotonin/ 5- Formed from amino acid 5- o Secrete histamine and kinins
hydroxytrytamine hydroxytryptophan in the
enterochromaffin cells (EC)
and enterochromaffin- like
cells (ECL)
Dopamine
Cholecystokinin
Substance P Present in significant amounts o Stimulates saliva production
in the vagus nerves and o Stimulates smooth muscle
myenteric plexus contraction and inflammatory
response in tissues
Vasoactive intestinal Secreted locally by endocrine o Inhibits the release of gastrin
peptide (VIP) cells or nerve endings and the secretion of acid
Almost exclusive to gi tract o Mild stimulant of bicarbonate
nerves secretion from the pancreas
o Powerful stimulant of
secretion of water and
electrolytes by the small and
large intestines.
o Relaxes the sphincters and
slows intestinal transmit
time.
Somatostatin Peptide secreted by Delta cells o Inhibitory modulator of the
in response to eating and fats secretion of acid and pepsin
entering the stomach. and the release of gastrin,
insulin and other intestinal
hormones.
o Inhibits the motility of the
gallbladder and intestine
o Suppresses the secretion of
lipase by the pancreas
Leu- enkephalin
Metenkephalin
Bombesin Intrinsic nerves of the gi tract o Stimulates the release of
gastrin and pancreatic
enzymes
o Stimulates contraction of the
gallbladder