Theoretical reflections about the reciprocal influence of neurotransmitters upon each other

In the reticular formation, serotonin and noradrenaline are competitive neurotransmitters in the regulation of the sleep-waking cycle. A balance exists between the two neurotransmitters: serotonin is preponderant during sleep and noradrenaline during wakefulness. Adrenergic neurons transmit an excitatory impulse to glutaminergic neurons via alpha1 receptors. These neurons have an inhibitory effect on serotonergic neurons through NMDA receptors. By contrast, serotonergic neurons exert a sleep-inducing and soothing effect through 5-HT1A receptors. These neurons have a postsynaptic excitatory effect upon GABAergic…