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5 - Neurotransmitters and Neurophysiology

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 November 2025

Stacey A. Bedwell
Affiliation:
King’s College London
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Summary

Several neurotransmitter systems play a key role in decision-making. The serotonergic system plays a neuromodulatory role, and is very widely connected, influencing a very wide variety of behaviours including sleep, mood, sexual behaviour, eating and memory. The norodrenergic system has a key connection to the prefrontal cortex, which we know is vital in decision-making. Noradrenaline also has a role in sleep. The dopaminergic system is important for working memory, novelty-seeking and attention. All of these contribute to decision-making.

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